Mercy's Dr. Vadim Gushchin, Director, Melanoma & Skin Cancer Center, Discusses Summer Skin Cancer Issues

Summer means time in the sun, but it also brings concerns about melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer.

According to surgical oncologist Dr. Vadim Gushchin, Director of The Melanoma & Skin Cancer Center at Mercy, there are a few misconceptions about skin cancer. Some believe if a person has dark skin, they can't get melanoma, but that's not true.

While those with fair skin are more prone to skin cancer, any complexion is susceptible. Also, preventing a sunburn as an adult won't protect against melanoma -- it's too late. The damage is done in childhood.

"The damage that leads to melanoma, sun damage to the skin that leads to most cases of melanoma, is done during the early childhood years, before the age of 15," Dr. Gushchin explained.

The greater the number and severity of sunburns as a child, the higher the risk of developing skin cancer.

Dr. Gushchin noted that the best thing someone can do to protect their children is keep them out of the sun as much as possible between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

To view Dr. Vadim Gushchin’s interview regarding skin cancer and melanoma, click here.