Summer 2026 3 Watch for melanoma Plus, summertime skin protection tips There’s a crucial reason why melanoma is the most serious skin cancer. “Without treatment, melanoma can quickly spread to other parts of the body,” says Grace Barajas, FNP-C. Melanoma forms in cells, called melanocytes, that make the pigment melanin, which determines skin color. “Those cells are particularly sensitive to UV damage,” Grace explains. Checking your skin regularly for new or changing spots or moles can help you detect melanoma. Remember the ABCDE rule: ASYMMETRY. One half of the mole looks different from the other. BORDERS. The mole has irregular borders. COLOR. The mole has multiple colors. DIAMETER. The diameter is larger than a pencil eraser. EVOLVING. The size, shape or color is changing. Tell your provider if you notice these or other concerning changes. An ounce of prevention Before heading out this summer: Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 to 50. Reapply every two hours or if you swim or sweat. “Certain injuries and illnesses trend upward this time of year,” says Emergency Physician Steve Hamilton, MD. Consider these tips before hiking, boating, swimming or doing other activities: Be water-wise. Wear a life jacket while boating. Never swim alone. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and cool. Increase your intake when it’s hot and you’re active. Respect your limits. Plan your outings according to your physical abilities. Rest when you need to. Know when to call 911. Any time you suspect a life-threatening emergency, such as trouble breathing, uncontrolled bleeding or head trauma, make the call. Even a change in normal behavior can indicate that something is wrong. “If someone Get a checkup Visit TexasHealthHuguley.org/Barajas to make an appointment. Wear sun-safer clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, UV-blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Put safety on your summer schedule appears confused, isn’t answering questions appropriately or is drifting off, that could suggest that they are disoriented from an illness such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, or something more serious,” Dr. Hamilton says. Texas Health Huguley’s emergency department is a level 3 trauma center, with multiple subspecialists available 24/7. “We’re here whenever you need us,” Dr. Hamilton says. Be prepared Visit TexasHealthHuguley.org/ED to learn about On My Way check-in and more.
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