Highly Skilled Dermatologist Combats Skin Cancer in Biloxi

BILOXI, MS, March 26, 2014 (Press-News.org) Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. One in five Americans are expected to develop skin cancer in their lifetimes. According to the American Cancer Society, there are more new cases of skin cancer than breast, prostate, colon and lung cancer combined every year. The staggering statistics make awareness and treatment all the more crucial.

"The good news about skin cancer is that it is easily treatable if caught early," said Dr. John Phillips, dermatologist in Biloxi. "The bad news is that skin cancers don't generally have symptoms beyond the skin until the cancer has spread. That means the only way to know if something suspicious is going on is to examine your skin regularly."

It is wise for all individuals to be conscious of the state of their skin. Do not simply examine it for suspicious moles or marks but also for rashes and other issues. Some people feel that self-examination is extreme or causes unwanted stress, but those patients to try to view it as self-awareness. With at home examination, skin cancer can potentially be diagnosed early on without the need for excessive treatments.

"Be aware of the unique features of your skin and notice when something isn't right. This can be a rash or something as minor as a bug bite. It isn't about self-diagnosis. It's about awareness and well-being. I tell my patients to educate themselves on red flags and listen to their instincts. They will know when to come see me," said Dr. Phillips in Biloxi about skin cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Most skin cancers are Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma or Melanoma. Each type manifests itself in different ways. Treatment options for skin cancer include cryosurgery, curettage and desiccation, Mohs Micrographic surgery, prescription creams, radiation therapy and surgical incision. Dr. John Phillips is qualified to perform all of these treatments to keep his patients healthy, happy and cancer-free.

Although skin cancer is generally treatable if caught early, Dr. Phillips hopes his patients will not wait till there is a problem to start combatting it. Currently there are about 90% of skin cancers, excluding Melanoma, caused by ultraviolet rays. In addition to self-examination, prevention is important. Patients should wear sunscreen all year because even on a gloomy day, the ultra violet rays are there.

For detailed information in Biloxi about skin cancer, treatments and what to look out for during self-examinations, patients can visit Dr. John Phillips' website at http://www.dermatology-associates.com. Patients can also visit the website to make an appointment and learn about the other services offered.

About Dermatology Associates of South MS, PLLC: Dr. John Phillips has been practicing dermatologic cosmetic surgery and dermatology in Biloxi since 1983. As a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Dr. Phillips attended the prestigious Tulane University Undergraduate and Medical School graduating with honors in 1982. While attending Tulane, Dr. Phillips was awarded the Gold Tip Stethoscope award for the most outstanding student in Medicine. After Tulane Medical School, Dr. Phillips trained for four intensive years as a resident in Internal Medicine and Dermatology. He completed his residency in 1986 and was appointed clinical Professor of Dermatology that same year. In 1986, he obtained a lifetime Board Certification in Dermatology but in an effort to be even more proficient and up to date in the field of dermatology, Dr. Phillips retook the board and was subsequently re-certified by the American Board of Dermatology in 2009 scoring in the top 10% of the nation.

Media Contact:
Dr. John H. Phillips
contactus@dermatology-associates.com
2550 Pass Road
Biloxi, MS 39531
(228) 594-9904
http://www.dermatology-associates.com

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