2025 March Issue of InMaricopa Magazine

HEALTH & WELLNESS

FOR ALL OF YOUR Professional Health Care Needs Sound Mind, Sound Body

cancer can be done on your own to help you de- termine if you need assessment by a physician. The ABCDE rule is a simple and effective way to screen for potential melanoma: • A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other. • B – Border: Irregular, scalloped or poor- ly defined edges. • C – Color: Varying shades of brown, black, or even red, white or blue. • D – Diameter: Larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can be smaller. • E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape or color over time. For non-melanoma skin cancers, look for persistent red patches, scaly lesions or open sores that do not heal. If you notice any of these warning signs, seek medical attention promptly. Our physicians at Maricopa Foot and An- kle can provide screening for skin cancer on the lower extremity. If a suspicious lesion is identi- fied, it is important to confirm if it is malignant. To confirm malignancy, a biopsy is required. The collected tissue is examined under a micro- scope by a pathologist, who determines if can- cer cells are present. In some cases, immunohistochemistry (IHC) or genetic testing may be performed to assess specific markers that can help guide treat- ment decisions. Whatever your circumstances for work or recreation are, you are likely to be exposed to high amounts of sunshine and UV radiation. Arizona residents should take proactive steps to reduce their risk for skin cancer. Some of those steps include use of broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, seeking shade during peak sun hours and regular skin checks. With early detection and prompt medical evaluation, skin cancer is highly treatable. If you have any questions about a lesion on your skin, it is worth investigating. Because of the risk and frequency of skin cancer, it is never a waste of your doctor’s time to examine your skin. Stay vigilant and protect your skin — it’s your best defense against Arizona’s intense sun exposure. 520-494-1090 MFAAC.com 21300 N. John Wayne Parkway, Suite 126

Skin cancer? On a lower extremity, remember ‘ABCDE’

DR. JORDAN RICHARDSON

IVING IN ARIZONA PROVIDES THE opportunity for amazing outdoor recreation and year-round sunshine. Because of this year-round sunshine and high UV index, Arizona is one of the top states for skin cancer risk. Frequently, cancerous or pre-cancerous le- sions are discovered on the face, shoulders, back and arms. It is important to note that careful examination for cancerous lesions should also include the skin on your legs and feet. This also should include your toenails. Legendary musician Bob Marley passed away from an aggressive type of skin cancer called acral lentiginous melanoma. He noticed a dark spot on one of his toenails and incorrectly assumed it was from a soccer injury. If properly treated, he could still be with us today, provid- ing us with great music. Understanding how to

PRIMARY CARE • Wellness Visits (incl. Medicare) • Sick Visits • Disease/Medication Management • Blood Draws (Tues.)

MENTAL HEALTH • Anxiety • Depression • PTSD • Substance Abuse • Esketamine Treatment Center

detect and confirm malignant skin lesions is crucial for early intervention and treatment. When it comes to skin cancer, you are bet- ter safe than sorry if you are concerned about any spots on your skin. Self-screening for skin

Most Insurance plans accepted including Medicare and AHCCCS

Maricopa’s full-service GLASS company

OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

LIZARD HEIGHTS L GLASS

SERVICE AT A HIGHER LEVEL

HOME

AUTO

BUSINESS

Home • Dual Panes (Insulated Glass) • Fogged Windows • Single Pane Windows • Table Tops • Shelves • Mirrors • Window & Sliding Door Repair • Custom Shower Doors/Enclosures

Auto • Window Replacement • Windshield Repairs • Calibration Services • Heavy Equipment • Mobile Service • Insurance Accepted

Business • Store Front Glass

Med Spa Service Available at the Chandler Location

NEXT DAY APPOINTMENTS (within 24hrs)

• Entrance Door Repair • Transaction Windows • Desk Top Protection • Mail Slots

W Smith Enke Rd H

480-306-5151 20928 N. John Wayne Pkwy, C-3

Schedule by Phone or Online

19 YEARS IN MARICOPA

ROC 222193 CR65 • Licensed • Bonded • Insured • Master Auto Glass Techs 520-868-6180 • www.LizardHG.com Est. 2006 Let us show you what service should be like

Maricopa Foot & Ankle Center

AmericanMedicalAssociatesAZ.com