You can do your customers a favor, possibly a life-saving favor, by keeping an eye out for signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer and early detection is the key to successful treatment. I have informed a number of customers of an abnormal looking skin condition that needed a professional look-see. For some it was the best tip they ever had. Those who got good news appreciated my being on the lookout.
There are three types of skin cancer:
1. Melanoma. The rarest of the three is the most dangerous. In the U.S. in 2008, there were 62,000 cases with 8,000 deaths. These numbers are on the rise.
2. Basal cell carcinoma. The most common skin cancer rarely is fatal, but it can be disfiguring if left untreated.
3. Squamous cell carcinoma. The second most common skin cancer. It rarely spreads (metastasize) to the lymph nodes or other sites in the body, but it does happen more often than the basal cell variety.
Use the internet (Google skin cancer) to see photos of the three types.
Give a quick glance behind and on top of the ear, the top of the head (easier if the hair has “bailed-out”), the back of the neck and along the bridge of the nose for any sign of suspicious skin growth. If something catches your eye, tell them about it and recommend an early visit to the dermatologist or family doctor.
LOVE
Love does not make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.
Franklin P. Jones