Sunscreen on Your Feet?

With two-a-days beginning, volleyball spiking up, and other fall sports, your relaxation on the beach or at your pool might take a different twist after reading this.

When at the pool or lake we all lather up with sun screen to protect our skin from the harmful rays of the sun. But do we remember to apply sunscreen to our feet?

Many don't realize skin cancer can occur on the feet from unprotected sun exposure, and overlook applying sunscreen to the area. But, here at Dr. Vail's we warn everyone that skin cancer of the foot is prevalent and can even be fatal if not caught early.

While all types of skin cancer, including squamous cell and basal cell carcinoma, can be found on the foot, the most common is the most serious form, melanoma. Symptoms can be subtle as an abnormal-looking mole or freckle found anywhere on the foot, and often go unnoticed without routine foot exams.

Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment for the condition. But because people aren't looking for the early warning signs or taking the same precautions they do for other areas of the body, often times skin cancer in this region is not diagnosed until later stages.

Patients should always regularly inspect their feet, including the soles, in between their toes and even under their toenails, for any changing moles or spots and have any suspicious areas promptly examined by Dr. Thomas F. Vail your foot and ankle specialist.