Page 15 - Abacoa Community News - March '24

Abacoa, Page 15
Navigating The Journey Of Melanoma And Complex Skin

Cancer Care: Insights From A Specialized General Surgeon

As the sun kisses our skin with warmth and radiance, it’s easy of atypical moles or a melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer, including squamous
to forget the potential risks lurking beneath its golden embrace. weakened immune system cell carcinoma and basil cell carcinoma.
Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, poses a significant threat due to factors such as Melanoma Management And Diagnosis
to our health, requiring meticulous management and expert organ transplantation Early detection is paramount in combating melanoma
care. As a specialized general surgeon with a focus on surgical or immunosuppressive effectively. Regular self-examinations and annual screenings
oncology, I’m deeply committed to guiding individuals through medications amplifies by a dermatologist can identify suspicious lesions. Dermoscopy,
the intricate journey of melanoma and complex skin cancer the susceptibility to skin a noninvasive technique utilizing magnification and light to
care. It’s important for the patient to understand the nuances of cancer. And yes, increased visualize skin structures, aids in distinguishing benign moles
diagnosis, surgical treatment and recovery, shedding light on exposure to tanning beds from potentially malignant lesions.
critical aspects of skin cancer management. can be harmful. According Upon diagnosis, a comprehensive evaluation may include
Understanding Skin Cancer Risk Factors to the American Academy imaging studies and lymph node mapping as well as guidance in
Risk factors associated with skin cancer include prolonged of Dermatology, exposure treatment decisions. Surgical excision remains the cornerstone
sun exposure and a history of severe sunburns which can to UV radiation from of melanoma management, encompassing wide local excision
heighten the risk of developing melanoma. Additionally, indoor tanning devices to remove the tumor along with a safety margin of healthy
individuals with fair skin, light-colored eyes, and a family history is associated with tissue. In cases of advanced disease, adjuvant therapies such as
of skin cancer are more predisposed to this condition. Presence an increased risk of Dr. Kimmerle “K.C.” Cohen immunotherapy or targeted therapy may be warranted to mitigate
the risk of recurrence and metastasis. In select cases, sentinel
lymph node biopsy aids in gauging the extent of disease spread
and guiding subsequent treatment strategies.
Following surgical intervention, diligent wound care and
close monitoring are imperative to expedite healing and detect
any signs of complications promptly. While physical recovery
may vary depending on the extent of surgery, emotional support
and counseling are equally vital in navigating the psychological
toll of battling cancer.
Diligently apply sunscreen, seek shade during peak hours,
and wear protective clothing to fosters a proactive approach
towards skin cancer prevention.
Dr. Kimmerle “K.C.” Cohen is an oncological and general
surgeon with Palm Beach Health Network Physician Group and
on staff at Good Samaritan Medical Center in West Palm Beach
and Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center. Learn more about Dr.
Cohen, or call her office for more information or to schedule an
appointment at (561) 802-9958.

Financial Focus from page 14
®
for every $3 you earn above $59,520. So, you may want to
keep these reductions in mind when deciding when to begin
accepting benefits. Once you reach your full retirement age,
you can earn any amount without losing benefits. (Also, at
your full retirement age, Social Security will recalculate your
benefit amount to credit you for the months you received
reduced benefits because of your excess earnings.)
• Spouse – Spouses can receive two types of Social
Security benefits: spousal and survivor. With a spousal
benefit, your spouse can receive up to 50 percent of your full
retirement benefits, regardless of when you start taking them.
(Your spouse’s benefit can be reduced by the amount of their
own retirement benefit and whether they took Social Security
before their full retirement age.) But with a survivor benefit,
your decision about when to take Social Security can make
a big difference. A surviving spouse can receive the larger
of their own benefit or 100 percent of a deceased spouse’s
benefit, so if you take benefits early and receive a permanent
reduction, your spouse’s survivor benefit may also be reduced
for their lifetime.
When to take Social Security is an important – and
irrevocable – decision. So, consider all the factors before
making your choice.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by
your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Edward Jones,
Member SIPC.
Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states
and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P.,
and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through
Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C.;
Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and
Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C.
Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors
cannot provide tax advice. You should consult your qualified
tax advisor regarding your situation.
Contact us at (561) 748-7600, Sally Sima Stahl, AAMS,
1851 W. Indiantown Road, Ste. 106, Jupiter, FL 33458.