Dr. Joel Schlessinger: skin cancer screenings are a very important checkup.

Oxygen magazine interviews top medical experts, including Dr. Joel Schlessinger, about the 10 most important tests and screenings.

Oxygen magazine provides important up-to-date health and fitness information that readers can put into practice. In July 2011, the magazine published an article, “Your Check-up Checklist,”  that got straight to the point about what medical check-ups are most important.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger, chose skin cancer screenings as his top choice. His advice includes:

• Starting testing between the ages of 20 and 39
• Being tested every three years
• Avoiding tanning booths

For more information about skin cancer screenings, including:

• risks associated with screening
• recommended diagnostic tests if a suspicious spot is found

See the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health’s site.

Meanwhile, the Skin Cancer Foundation provides images of five different types of skin cancer and describes warning signs of the disease. The site also describes causes of each type; risk factors; treatments; and prevention guidelines.

The reality is that more than 3.5 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year in more than 2 million people. In fact, one in five people in the United States will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. Taking preventative measures is key.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger recommends his favorite sunscreen for protection against skin cancer.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, and both UVA and UVB protection, to help prevent skin cancer. Dr. Joel Schlessinger’s favorite sunscreens are those by EltaMD.

Freelance writers, editors, journalist and bloggers: are you looking for an expert for your article? Contact Dr. Joel Schlessinger today.