Atrium Health Navicent doctor shares sun safety tips during Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Dr. Paul Dale, chief of surgical oncology for Atrium Health Navicent and medical director of the Atrium Health Navicent Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, stressed the importance of understanding the sun’s impact on skin health.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – An Atrium Health Navicent physician is raising awareness about the risks of sun exposure during Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

Dr. Paul Dale, chief of surgical oncology for Atrium Health Navicent and medical director of the Atrium Health Navicent Peyton Anderson Cancer Center, stressed the importance of understanding the sun’s impact on skin health.

“If you have three or more blistering sunburns throughout your life, then you become increased risk for developing melanoma or other skin cancers,” Dale said.

Dale stressed the importance of sun safety, especially as warmer months approach.

“So apply it early, apply it before you get out in the sun,” he said. “Be very, very conscious of the of the the hottest times of the day. Wear a hat, wear sunglasses. People don’t realize you can actually get a melanoma of the eye of the eye.”

He also urged individuals to watch for changes in their skin and consult a doctor if something seems off.

Dale says to talk to your primary care doctor if your mole starts to change in color, size, or shape.