Dealing with skin cancer
Posted: 05.22.2010 at 11:44 AM

Avoiding, or coping with skin spots

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Skin cancer, or pre-cancerous skin spots become fairly common as you get older---and dealing with them is easy, if you pay attention.  Dr. Rich O'Neill, psychologist at SUNY Upstate, shared his personal experience: he now has two spots on his face that are undergoing treatment.  He says getting prompt attention is important, as are the preventives: wear sunblock, as well as long sleeves and hats, and don't stay out in direct sun for long periods.  And, he says that telling friends about the experience also encourages them to think twice about sun exposure.  Role modeling for children is also important, with the reminder that in a child, a blistering burn increases the chance of skin cancer,  and five such exposures doubles the chance.  For more: www.cancer.gov
>Dr. O'Neill offers advice on coping with 'everyday' stresses every Saturday morning on Weekend Today in Central NY, in our 9am hour.