Kristie Bonner said she has been shocked to see many women her age and younger affected by skin cancer.
Bonner has worked for two years at the Tiffani Kim Institute in Chicago and, through a partnership with the American Academy of Dermatology, offers local residents free screenings for skin cancer. Bonner said people can play a role in their own health by doing self-examinations and being aware of their bodies.
Q What should people be aware of when monitoring their skin for abnormalities?
A You always want to be aware of anything that changes size, shape or color. Bleeding, itching or flaking are also things people commonly don’t pay attention to. If it’s a new mole, or newly changing mole, you definitely want to notify your doctor so they can continue to monitor it. Do monthly exams for yourself. Take a look at yourself when you get out of the shower and know what’s happening with your skin.
| Want to get checked? To schedule your free skin cancer screening, call Kristie Bonner at (312) 260-9020 at the Tiffani Kim Institute in Chicago. |
Q How can people prevent problems with skin cancer?
A Always protect yourself by using sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher, every day. I always tell my patients, if you don’t need a light bulb to see someone outside, you need sunscreen. It’s the most important thing you can do for your skin. It’s the largest organ in our body and also the first one we damage. Before age 20, we do the most damage to our skin, and it’s the most diagnosed and most deadly form of cancer in woman ages 19 to 30. It’s also important to get a skin cancer screening every year. Get your birthday suit checked on your birthday, we tell patients.
Q What does a screening entail?
A It’s a complete, full-body, head-to-toe screening. I pay particular attention to the scalp, the neck, behind the ears and the feet, because those are the areas people can get moles and not even realize it. It’s best to go to a specialist for the screenings who knows what they’re looking for.
