Shield Your Skin: Simple Steps to Prevent Skin Cancer Woman Applying Sunscreen

Skin cancer is one of the most common—and preventable—forms of cancer. At Core Medicine of Idaho, Family Practice and Urgent Care in Caldwell, Idaho, our healthcare team emphasizes the importance of sun protection and early detection in reducing the risk of skin cancer.

One of the clinic’s providers reflects on an impactful lesson learned during graduate school while working in a dermatology clinic:

“There’s the skin cancer you die with, and the skin cancer you can die from.”

This message highlights a critical reality: sun exposure and UV damage are the leading causes of all types of skin cancer. Whether spending time outdoors for work or recreation, individuals in the Treasure Valley region are especially encouraged to take proactive steps to protect their skin year-round.

Understanding Skin Cancer: Know the Basics

Skin cancers begin in the outer layers of the skin—specifically, the epidermis. Here’s a quick overview of the most common skin cells and how they relate to cancer:

  • Squamous Cells: These flat cells are constantly shed and replaced. Cancer in these cells is called squamous cell carcinoma—a slow-growing but potentially invasive cancer.

  • Basal Cells: Located in the deeper layers of the epidermis, basal cells divide and replace squamous cells. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and rarely spreads, but it can cause disfigurement if left untreated.

  • Melanocytes: These cells produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. When cancer develops in these cells, it's called melanoma—the most serious and potentially deadly form of skin cancer.

What Is Melanoma?

Melanoma typically starts on the skin and can appear anywhere, but it often shows up on the trunk (chest and back) for men and the legs for women. The face and neck are also common sites. People with darker skin have a lower risk, but melanoma can still appear in less expected areas like the eyes, mouth, nose, throat, or genital and anal regions.

While basal and squamous cell cancers are often treatable and rarely life-threatening, melanoma is the one you can die from if not caught early.

Self-Checks: Practice the ABCDs

We encourage all patients in Caldwell and surrounding communities to regularly examine their skin. Pay special attention to areas that get frequent sun exposure: arms, ears, cheeks, scalp, back, and shoulders. When checking your moles or spots, remember the ABCDs of skin cancer:

  • Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other half

  • Border: Edges are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined

  • Color: Varied shades of tan, brown, black (sometimes white, red, or blue)

  • Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), but they can be smaller when diagnosed early

Simple Sun Protection Tips

Here’s how you can reduce your risk of skin cancer year-round:

  • Seek shade, especially during midday hours when the sun’s rays are strongest

  • Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat

  • Use sunglasses with 100% UV protection to shield your eyes and the skin around them

  • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

  • Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps—they significantly increase your risk of melanoma

  • Use UV-blocking gear (hats, sleeves, shields) if your job or hobbies involve prolonged sun exposure

When to Visit Urgent Care

If you notice a suspicious mole, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a spot that’s changing in size, shape, or color – don’t wait. At Core Medicine of Idaho’s Urgent Care in Caldwell, Idaho, our family medicine team is here to evaluate skin concerns promptly and refer you to dermatology if needed. Early detection saves lives.

Need Help with a Skin Concern?

Visit Core Medicine of Idaho, Family Medicine and Urgent Care—conveniently located in Caldwell, Idaho. Our compassionate providers offer same-day appointments and are committed to your family’s health and well-being.