Blog Articles

Merkel Cell Carcinoma and the Immune System: What’s the Connection?

The good news is Merkel cell carcinoma is relatively rare. The bad news is it's aggressive and can spread quickly. Read on to learn more about this skin cancer, including the role the immune system plays in its development and treatment.

Aug 1st, 2025

Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Non-Sun-Exposed Areas: What to Know

Squamous cell carcinoma can strike areas exposed to the sun and locations that do not receive harmful ultraviolet radiation. Read on to learn what to look for and where this second most common type of skin cancer may appear.

Jul 2nd, 2025

Mole Versus Melanoma: How to Tell the Difference

Melanoma is not only the most deadly type of skin cancer, but many cases form in moles, which makes them even more challenging to detect. Read on to learn what to look for when examining your skin.

Jun 5th, 2025

Skin Self-Checks: The Simple Routine That Could Save Your Life

With 20% of Americans getting diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70 years old, it's natural to be concerned. Conducting monthly skin checks can help spot issues early.

May 6th, 2025

Skin Cancer Prevention: 4 Steps You Can Take, Starting Now

While skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, that doesn't mean getting it is inevitable. Read on to learn four steps to take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Apr 8th, 2025

Soft Tissue Sarcoma: Recognizing Symptoms and Understanding Treatment

Soft tissue sarcoma can appear as a lump in one of the extremities or grow inside the body. Read on to learn more about the symptoms to watch for and treatment options.

Mar 12th, 2025

Beyond Local Excision: Treatment Options When Melanoma Has Spread

Melanoma is not the most common type of skin cancer, but it’s the most deadly. The good news is that treatment options are available even if it has spread. Read on to learn more.

Feb 6th, 2025

What Is a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy for Melanoma?

Melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer because it grows quickly. Fortunately, specialized procedures like a sentinel lymph node biopsy can provide additional information about whether it has spread. Read on to learn more.

Jan 7th, 2025

4 Steps to Take If Skin Cancer Runs in Your Family

Having a relative diagnosed with skin cancer like melanoma can naturally be concerning. Read on to learn more about how that affects your risk and the steps you can take to protect yourself.

Dec 1st, 2024

What's This Red, Scaly Patch on My Skin?

Multiple conditions, including cancer, can cause red, scaly patches on the skin. Read on to learn more about the possible causes and what you need to know.

Nov 8th, 2024

Should I Be Worried About a New Mole?

While not all new moles that appear in adulthood are cancerous, it is still important to get them checked by a medical professional. Read on to learn more.

Oct 14th, 2024

Why Is Merkel Cell Carcinoma So Aggressive?

Merkel cell carcinoma is the second deadliest type of skin cancer because it grows and spreads quickly and often returns after treatment. Read on to learn its symptoms, risk factors, and more.

Sep 11th, 2024

I'm Relieved to Learn the Lump In My Breast is a Fibroadenoma, But What Next?

Not all breast lumps are cancer. In fact, most are benign and include diagnoses such as fibroadenomas. Read on to learn what these masses are and how they are treated.

Aug 14th, 2024

What's Involved in Melanoma Removal?

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. However, it can be removed by wide local excision. This minor surgery can often provide a cure when the cancer is found early. Read on to learn more.

Jul 22nd, 2024

What Does It Mean to Have "Minimally Invasive" Surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery uses smaller incisions along with a tiny camera and tools. Read on to learn more about the procedure and its benefits, including less pain, minimal scarring, and a faster recovery.

Jun 19th, 2024

Why is Gallbladder Surgery So Common?

Gallbladder removal is a common surgical procedure after developing gallstones. Read on to learn about gallbladder surgery and why this is often the treatment of choice.

May 14th, 2024

4 Different Types of Skin Cancer: Signs and Treatments

Detecting skin cancer early is critical to the best possible outcome. Read on to learn about the different types and their symptoms, as well as the treatments.

Apr 8th, 2024

4 Signs of Merkel Cell Skin Cancer

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive skin cancer. Read on to learn what symptoms and risk factors to watch out for.

Mar 1st, 2024

Soft Tissue Sarcoma: Understanding Your Diagnosis

Soft tissue sarcomas don't get as much attention as many other cancers, so it's natural not to know much about it. Read on to learn more.

Feb 1st, 2024

Why Are Younger People Getting Melanoma?

Melanoma is a serious skin cancer that can spread to other areas of the body and affect all ages. In fact, those under age 40 are seeing an increase in diagnosis. Read on to learn the signs to watch for.

Jan 16th, 2024

Here's Where Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Most Often Appears

Squamous cell carcinoma often appears on areas of the body exposed to harmful radiation from the sun (or tanning beds). Read on to learn more about its signs and symptoms, as well as tips to decrease your risk.

Dec 15th, 2023

What Your Stool Can Tell You About Your Health

Our stool offers important insights into our health and can alert you to everything from an infection to internal bleeding. Read on to learn more about what your stool can tell you about your health.

Nov 15th, 2023

Take Care of That Hernia With Minimally Invasive Surgery

Hernia repair surgery with minimally invasive techniques allows smaller incisions and faster recovery. Read on to learn more.

Oct 1st, 2023

When a Cyst in Your Breast Is of Concern

Breast cysts are common and, in most cases, are harmless. However, certain types can be cancer, so it is essential to get them examined by a medical professional. Read on to learn more.

Sep 1st, 2023

What Are the Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma can be successfully treated when found early. Read on to learn the signs and what to look for when examining your skin.

Aug 8th, 2023

Caring for Yourself After Your Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is performed following diagnosis of certain cancers to determine if it has spread. Read on to learn more about what to expect during recovery.

Jul 14th, 2023

5 Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery provides many benefits, including less pain and scarring and faster recovery. Read on to learn more about this procedure and why it's often a good choice.

Jun 8th, 2023

How to Reduce Your Risk of Melanoma

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Read on to learn more about melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, and ways to protect your skin.

May 17th, 2023

4 Tips to Help You Avoid Skin Cancer

Skin cancer will strike more than 20% of Americans by the time they are 70 years old. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Read on to learn more.

Apr 12th, 2023

How Minimally Invasive Surgery Works to Remove Your Gallbladder

Minimally invasive surgery to remove the gallbladder is often the best option. Read on to learn more about this procedure and its benefits, including smaller incisions and faster healing time.

Mar 16th, 2023

Nicotinamide to Help Reduce Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinoma

In addition to avoiding the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays, supplementation with the B3 vitamin nicotinamide may help reduce the risk of certain types of skin cancer. Read on to learn more.

Feb 14th, 2023

Does the Sun Really Cause Skin Cancer?

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning beds is the main cause of skin cancer. Read on to learn more about why protection from the sun and avoidance of indoor tanning is so essential.

Jan 13th, 2023

Diet Changes to Make If You Want to Support Your Skin Long-Term

A nutritious diet can aid in keeping your skin moisturized, reducing acne and fine lines. It can even lessen the sun's damaging impact. Read on to learn more about what foods can help.

Dec 7th, 2022

Everything You Didn't Know About Melanoma

While melanoma isn't the most common type of cancer, it is the most serious. Read on to learn about risk factors, what to look out for, and more.

Nov 13th, 2022

Understanding Your Risk for Skin Cancer

Several factors can increase your chances of skin cancer. Read on to learn the risk factors and, in some cases, how you can modify your behavior to reduce your risk.

Oct 11th, 2022

Is There Any Way to Prevent Skin Cancer?

While everyone is at risk of developing skin cancer, the good news is there are steps you can take to decrease your chances. Read on to learn more about what you can do to prevent skin cancer.

Sep 13th, 2022

The Real Risks of Tanning

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation through the sun and tanning beds can cause sunburns and risks to your health. Read on to learn more about the dangerous effects and myths associated with tanning.

Aug 9th, 2022

Tips for Giving Yourself a Skin Self-Exam

Skin cancer will strike about 20% of people in the United States by the time they turn 70. Conducting a monthly skin self-exam is an essential step toward early diagnosis and treatment. Read on to learn more.

Jul 12th, 2022

The Only Safe Ways to Get a Tan and Not Damage Your Skin

Any amount of exposure to the sun and its ultraviolet radiation can cause damage to the skin, including skin cancer. However, for those who still want to tan, there are tips on how to do it as safely as possible. Read on to learn more.

Jun 5th, 2022

Lesser Known Facts About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is common. However, most people don’t realize how many people it affects. Read on to learn more about the lesser-known facts regarding skin cancer.

May 1st, 2022

These Areas of Your Body Are Most at Risk for Squamous Cell Skin Cancer

Treatment for squamous cell skin cancer works best results when caught early. Watch out for any unusual marks on your skin, including red patches, nodules, or sores. Read on to learn more, including where this skin cancer most often appears.

Apr 4th, 2022

The ABCDEs of Moles

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, but when it is caught early, the survival rate is greatly improved. Read on to learn more about its signs and why thinking "ABCDE" may help you detect it at an earlier stage.

Mar 9th, 2022

Understanding the Different Types of Skin Cells

There are three main types of cells in the outer layer of skin — squamous cells, basal cells, and melanocytes — and each can lead to the development of skin cancer. Read on to learn more about these cells and symptoms you should watch out for.

Feb 2nd, 2022

Is Melanoma Ever Curable?

Nobody wants to hear that they have melanoma. But when caught early, melanoma can be treated and even cured in many cases. Read on to learn about the signs to look out for, how a diagnosis is made, and more.

Jan 11th, 2022

UV Rays: 5 Reasons to Protect Your Skin Through the Winter

UV rays that put you at risk of skin cancer can cause damage at any time of the year, including during the winter months. Read on to learn why this seemingly harmless season can still be dangerous to your skin.

Dec 8th, 2021

Soft Tissue Sarcoma: Symptoms and Treatment

Soft tissue sarcomas typically develop in the arms, legs, chest, or abdomen. Treatment often requires surgical removal along with chemotherapy or radiation. Read on to learn the signs to watch out for and who could be at risk.

Nov 14th, 2021

All About Fibroadenomas

Fibroadenomas are non-cancerous lumps in the breast that frequently occur in women between the ages of 15 and 35. They are benign but getting a proper diagnosis is important to rule out cancer. Read on to learn more.

Oct 10th, 2021

Moles: When Should You Be Concerned?

Moles may be an unwelcome blemish on the skin, but they can also cause a more serious issue — melanoma. Read on to learn the warning signs of this serious type of cancer and when you should be concerned.

Sep 6th, 2021

Everything You Didn't Know About How the Sun Impacts Your Skin

You know that the sun can cause uncomfortable sunburns. But did you know that its rays can also result in a prematurely aged appearance and skin cancer? Read on to learn more about its dangers and ways to protect yourself.

Aug 9th, 2021

Are You at Risk for Skin Cancer?

People tend believe that skin cancer won’t happen to them. But several factors, including exposure to UV radiation and genetics, can increase the risk of developing it. Read on to learn more.

Jul 21st, 2021

The Different Types of Skin Cancer

Did you know that there are multiple types of skin cancer? Skin cancer is classified into specific types defined by the location where it is detected. Read on to learn about the different kinds and their symptoms.

Jun 16th, 2021

Clinical Trials for Melanoma

While melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer, there are a number of treatment options available, including surgery, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy as well as less commonly used radiation and chemotherapy. Read on to learn more!

May 20th, 2021

Immunotherapy for Melanoma

Because melanoma can spread quickly, it’s important to get a prompt diagnosis and treatment plan in place. Care options vary depending on the cancer’s stage, but immunotherapy may be one option to consider. Read on to learn more.

Apr 7th, 2021

What Is Soft Tissue Sarcoma?

Soft tissue sarcoma can be classified into over 80 subtypes and found throughout the body. Read on to learn more about this relatively rare type of cancer that affects both adults and children.

Mar 12th, 2021

Gallbladder Disease

Gallbladder disease is caused by a number of different health issues. Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment plan are key to preventing possibly serious complications. Read on to learn more.

Feb 5th, 2021

Signs of Benign Breast Disease

A lump in the breast can signify anything from cancer to benign breast disease. While only a doctor can make a professional diagnosis, there are signs of this non-cancerous health issue you can look for. Read on to learn more.

Jan 10th, 2021

4 Lifestyle Habits for Preventing Skin Cancer

Skin cancer strikes almost 10,000 people each day in the United States, but there are things you can do to protect your skin. Read on to learn four lifestyle habits you can practice to help prevent skin cancer.

Dec 2nd, 2020

Treatment Options for Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Soft tissue sarcomas are not as well-known as other kinds of cancer but they can be serious. Seeking a timely diagnosis and treatment plan are important steps in getting the best possible outcome. Read on to learn more.

Nov 8th, 2020

How Often Should You Get Your Skin Checked?

Skin checks are an important tool to help catch skin cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Read on to learn more about skin cancer and its risks, as well as what experts say on how often an exam is recommended.

Oct 1st, 2020

Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Skin imperfections are common, but if you have a lump that is red or blue and growing rapidly, it's important to get it examined to rule out Merkel cell carcinoma, an aggressive type of skin cancer. Read on to learn more.

Sep 17th, 2020

What to Look for in a Cancer Surgeon

Finding a suitable doctor under normal circumstances can be challenging enough, but it’s even more important when you need cancer surgery. Read on to learn what questions to ask, including education, certifications, and experience.

Aug 17th, 2020

Are Breast Lumps Always a Cause for Concern?

Discovering a lump in your breast can be scary. Fortunately, there are a number of other noncancerous causes — many of which don’t even require treatment. Read on to learn more about benign breast diseases.

Jul 22nd, 2020

How to Recognize the Different Types of Skin Cancer

Exposure to the sun can sometimes result in skin cancer — even when you're careful and wear sunscreen. Read on to learn more about the symptoms to look out for.

Jun 22nd, 2020

5 Top Ways to Protect Your Skin from UV Light This Summer

We all love the sun and the outdoor activities that go along with it. The good news is there are ways to have fun while protecting your skin from the sun's damaging ultraviolet rays. Read on to learn more.

May 27th, 2020

Why You Should Never Ignore a Strange Mole

Most moles are nothing more than a harmless dark spot on our skin. In some cases, however, they can undergo a change that results in a type of skin cancer known as melanoma. Read on to learn the signs to watch for.

Apr 28th, 2020

How Are Fibroadenomas Formed?

It's only natural to think cancer if you've found a lump in your breast, but there are many other benign issues it could be, including a fibroadenoma. Read on to learn more about how these lumps form.

Mar 2nd, 2020

The Best Preventive Measures for Skin Cancer

Skin cancer strikes people everywhere, but those living in sunny Southern California are especially at risk. Learn the steps you can take to protect yourself.

Feb 1st, 2020

Recognizing the Symptoms of Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Soft tissue sarcoma is an uncommon type of cancer that can be difficult to spot. Growing on connective tissues, they can become life-threatening if not properly treated. Learn how to recognize the signs of this disease and how it’s treated.

Dec 31st, 2019

Understanding Your Risk of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer can’t be prevented, but there are ways to reduce your chances of getting it. It starts with understanding your risk of breast cancer, and the ways you may be able to prevent the disease from progressing.

Nov 30th, 2019

Do You Know the ABCDEs of Melanoma?

Did you know that the first five letters of the alphabet hold clues for identifying melanoma? You can help protect against this type of skin cancer by doing a regular “ABCDE” check on yourself and loved ones.

Nov 12th, 2019