February Is About Skin Cancer Prevention
February is National Cancer Prevention Month, and one of the most important messages in dermatology is this:
Not all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure.
While UV radiation plays a role in many skin cancers, dermatologists also diagnose cancers that have nothing to do with the sun and often look like common rashes.
I recently saw a patient for a second opinion who had been treated for psoriasis for years. Their symptoms were managed as a chronic inflammatory skin condition, which is common and reasonable.
However, further evaluation revealed Mycosis fungoides, a rare type of skin lymphoma.
This diagnosis was not related to sun exposure, but it highlighted why routine, comprehensive skin exams matter, even for patients already under dermatologic care.
Skin Cancer Is Broader Than UV Damage
In dermatology, skin cancer includes more than sun-induced lesions. Some cancers:
- Develop slowly over years
- Mimic eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
- Are driven by immune or inflammatory pathways
That’s why ongoing care, pattern recognition, and periodic reassessment are essential especially when a condition isn’t behaving as expected.
Your Skin Is a Longevity Organ
At Bergen Dermatology, we view the skin as a longevity organ. One that reflects immune health, inflammation, environmental exposure, and aging over time.
From a lifestyle and longevity perspective:
- Chronic inflammation can impair the skin’s immune surveillance
- Delayed diagnosis increases treatment intensity and long-term skin damage
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Early detection preserves skin function, comfort, and quality of life
Skin cancer prevention isn’t just about avoiding disease, it’s about protecting how your skin functions over decades.
Who Should Prioritize Annual Skin Exams?
Annual skin checks are important for everyone, and especially if you:
- Have chronic inflammatory skin conditions
- Have persistent rashes that don’t fully respond to treatment
- Have a personal history of skin cancer (any type)
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Are on immune-modulating medications
Skin cancer prevention isn’t one-size-fits-all and it isn’t just about the sun.
Your skin tells a story over time. Annual skin exams help us read that story accurately.
February is the perfect time to reset your prevention plan.
If it’s been over a year since your last full-body skin exam or if a chronic skin condition hasn’t behaved as expected now is the time to schedule a visit.
Early evaluation protects not just your skin, but your long-term health.
📍 Bergen Dermatology
📅 Annual skin checks save skin and lives.
