MEMPHIS, TENN., May 8 – Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates invites the public to “Save Your Skin” as May marks National Melanoma Month. Advanced Dermatology and Skin Cancer Associates doctors will also participate in the Memphis Dermatology Society free skin cancer screenings events for National Melanoma Month from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 13, at Shady Grove Elementary School, 5360 Shady Grove Road, and InsideOut Gym, 2162 Courtland Place.

Anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of skin color. An estimated one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Skin cancer is highly treatable if detected early, so it’s important to know whether a mole on the skin is benign or possibly malignant.

“I see the effects of unprotected sun exposure daily, and while we don’t always think about the potential dangers of the sun, they can be fatal. Even a day without sunscreen can cause lasting and adverse effects,” said Dr. Purvisha Patel, Mohs skin cancer surgeon and owner of Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates.

Dermatologists use the ABCDEs to help determine whether a patient should schedule a screening with a dermatologist to check for melanoma. Learn more at aad.org.  

American Academy of Dermatology ABCDEs

ASYMMETRY: An atypical mole will not be symmetrical.

BORDER: An atypical mole will not have a defined border.

COLOR: An atypical mole will not be one consistent color.

DIAMETER: The diameter of a melanoma is usually greater than 6mm, or the size of a pencil eraser; however, they can be smaller.

EVOLVING: If you notice a mole has changed in size or shape, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.

Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates can be found online:

www.advanceddermatologymemphis.com

https://www.facebook.com/AdvancedDermatologyMemphis/

https://twitter.com/adermatologymem

 Doctors to check moles for Melanoma during free events May 13

About Advanced Dermatology & Skin Care Associates:

Since 2008, Dr. Purvisha Patel and Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates have been working to provide the best dermatological care to patients in the Germantown, Tennessee, and Olive Branch, Mississippi, areas. A third office will open soon at 5349 Airline Drive in Arlington, Tennessee. Our providers’ experience in dermatology is coupled with genuine concern for their patients. All of our staff is dedicated to your comfort and prompt attention as well. Our goal is to help you maintain healthy, beautiful skin.

About Dr. Purvisha Patel:

Born in London, Dr. Purvisha Patel was raised in Wales (United Kingdom) and Virginia. She completed her undergraduate and medical school studies at the University of Virginia. She completed her dermatology training at The University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis. Dr. Patel is certified by the American Board of Dermatology and is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. She is a fellow of the American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery and Cutaneous Oncology and serves as a clinical professor of the University of Tennessee Department of Dermatology.