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HEALTH GUIDE
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Weird skin? Remember ABCDE, says city's top dermatology provider
Staying ahead of injuries MUSD expands concussion safeguards to keep athletes safe By David Iversen Y OUTH SPORTS ARE A GROWING PART OF community identity. From Friday night Maricopa High School football games to weekends with packed Copper Sky soccer fields, parents and coaches are learning that protecting young brains is as important as a strong body. A concussion can be caused by something as small as a bump. More likely, it comes from a blow to the head or even a hard hit to the body that jolts the brain inside the skull. Whatever the cause, the result is the same: a traumatic brain injury.
from the Arizona Department of Health Services shows unintentional injuries, including sports-related brain trauma, remain a leading cause of youth ER visits in Pinal County. Under Arizona law, schools must immediately remove any student suspected of a concussion from play and can only return them with written medical clearance from a licensed provider. Annual education for parents, coaches and athletes is required — policies now adopted by Maricopa Unified School District. The Arizona Interscholastic Association’s Brainbook program ensures every high school athlete completes online concussion education before their first practice, while coaches must review prevention and “return-to- play” rules each season.
also hired an added athletic trainer this year, expanding on-site coverage and improving immediate access to care. “In alignment with the AIA’s concussion education initiatives, MUSD has developed a comprehensive plan focused on both prevention and immediate emergency care when necessary,” said Matt Mayo, MUSD’s director of athletics, activities and access. “Student safety, particularly in the area of brain health, remains our highest priority.” All the football equipment is upgraded to achieve five stars on the Virginia Tech Helmet Rating Index, an industry standard. In soccer, protective gear is not required but students can wear it if they choose to. Mayo said the effort is ongoing. “Awareness around brain health is changing the way youth sports are played,” he said. “We’re meeting that moment with education, preparation and action.”
with a dermatologist right away. Early detection saves lives, and at Better Skin Dermatology, our team is highly trained in identifying, diagnosing and treating skin cancer at all stages. While Maricopa is newer to our story, we also proudly serve patients in Scottsdale and Carefree, making quality dermatology accessible across the Valley. Our rebrand to Better Skin Dermatology reflects both our legacy and our future — committed to better care, better outcomes and better skin health for every patient we serve. We are honored to remain Maricopa’s first and most trusted source for dermatology and skin cancer care. Protecting your skin is protecting your health, and we are here to be your lifelong partner in that mission.
cancer. Arizona’s year-round sun exposure places our communities at greater risk. Regular skin exams are critical, and knowing what to look for can make all the difference. One of the most effective tools for early detection of melanoma is the ABCDE rule: A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other. B – Border: Edges are irregular,
By Rob Casquejo, PA-C W dermatology office to open in Maricopa, ensuring the community had access to trusted skin care close to home. HEN IT COMES TO DERMATOLOGY IN Maricopa, Skin & Cancer Center of Scottsdale (Maricopa office) has proudly led the way. We were the first
ragged, notched or blurred. C – Color: The mole shows
different colors such as shades of brown, black, tan or even white, red or blue. D – Diameter: Spots larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser) may be concerning. E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color or symptoms (such as bleeding or itching). If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule an appointment
of all ages. From acne and psoriasis to full-body exams, advanced treatments and ongoing prevention, we’re here to care for your skin at every stage of life. While we treat a wide range of conditions, one of the most important aspects of our work is the early detection and treatment of skin
Today, under our new name, Better Skin Dermatology, we remain deeply committed to serving the community with expertise and compassion. With more than 20 years of experience, our providers specialize in all aspects of dermatology and care for patients
While most recover fully, repeated concussions can lead to long-term neurological problems, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy , better known as CTE. It is a degenerative brain disease linked to memory loss, mood changes and cognitive decline. Data from Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix shows nearly 1 in 3 Arizona 12th-grade athletes experienced at least one concussion during high school. The research shows football and girls’ soccer have the highest concussion rates statewide. “We can’t eliminate every hit,” said Barrow’s Dr. Javier Cárdenas, “but we can eliminate unnecessary risk.” In Maricopa, where access to specialized concussion clinics is more limited than in the Valley, early recognition and local response are key. Emergency and trauma data
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This year, MUSD expanded its own
concussion safeguards.
The district now requires all students to go through an ImPACT baseline test, a tool meant to evaluate the severity of a concussion and monitor an athlete’s recovery. MUSD
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RED FLAGS FOR BRAIN INJURY IN SPORTS • Headaches • Dizziness • Confusion • Memory problems • Mood changes after a hit
Senior QB Jose Cardona Jr. wears the latest head protection.
We will do a no cost comparison of employer coverage to help guide you
KATIE LAMBERT
Source: Arizona Interscholastic Association
Text or email: 520-397-3444, reignhealthandwealth@gmail.com for a FREE quote
InMaricopa.com | November 2025
November 2025 | InMaricopa.com
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