July - UV Awareness Month

At Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle  a podiatry practice in Clinton Maryland, the sun is shining and it is hot out there! July is National UV Awareness Month, and Dr. Larry Hotchkiss D.P.M wants everyone to know the importance of protecting your feet from the sun’s harmful rays. Sun screen is the key to protection but how many people remember to apply sunscreen to your feet while enjoying the summertime heat?

Skin Cancer can be found on the feet as it can on the entire body. It is important to know that at Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle we can help biopsy and diagnose the three most common types of skin cancer that are found on the feet: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Malignant Melanoma.  By preforms a skin biopsy and making a diagnosis it can lead to more positive outcomes, and it helps you get back out there and enjoy the summertime heat.

Do you know the ABCDs of Melanoma?

Learn how to spot cancerous lesions

Asymmetry – the lesion on the skin is divided in half and the sides do not match.

Borders – the border of the lesion look scalloped ragged, or uneven.

Color – the lesion could be multi colored and colors may have an uneven distribution.

Diameter – The lesion appears wider then 6mm, about the size of a pencil eraser.

Don’t wait until it is too late!! Call Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle today and beat the summer heat with us!