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For patients who love the sun, a skin check with a specialist is a must.

Delaware’s melanoma rate is the fifth highest in the nation. It’s important to discuss exposure to the sun with your patients — particularly those who work outdoors and have an increased risk. Most melanomas are likely to occur in individuals who are fair-skinned. Women are at higher risk before age 40, and men after age 40. Encourage self-examination and, for high-risk individuals, recommend an annual examination by a clinical expert such as a dermatologist. You can refer patients to ProtectYourSkinDE.com for more information and to find a dermatologist.

Doctor examining a patient's mole during a skin check for Melanoma screening

Who Is at Risk for Melanoma?

Risk factors for melanoma include:

  • Exposure to excessive UV light from sources such as the sun or tanning beds
  • History of sunburns
  • Presence of moles
  • Light-colored skin, freckles, light hair, and blue or green eyes
  • Family or personal history of melanoma
  • Women younger than age 40
  • Men older than age 40
  • Diagnosis of xeroderma pigmentosum

If Your Patients Are Underinsured or Don’t Have Insurance, They May Qualify for a Free Screening

Screening for Life may pay for a skin cancer screening if the patient:

  • Is age 18 to 64
  • Is age 65 or older and does not qualify for Medicare
  • Meets the income guidelines of Screening for Life (income scale is based on a family’s size and can be obtained by calling Delaware 2-1-1, toll-free)

Patient Education Materials for Your Office