+ KANSAS Healthcare Profiles Questions about skin cancer? Answers from a dermatologic surgeon. “There is an epidemic of skin cancer in this country,” says John Adams, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, Fellow of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and Fellow member of the American Society for Mohs Surgery. One of only a few Mohs surgeons in Kansas, Dr. Adams addresses treatment and prevention. Q: Who is at risk for skin cancer? A: Everyone. The number of skin cancer cases continues to escalate. Unfortunately, there are not enough dermatologists to adequately serve patients, and the dermatologist is the true expert when it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. Q: What is Mohs surgery? A: Developed by Dr. Fredrick Mohs, it is a precise procedure used primarily for the removal of lesions on the head, neck, hands, feet, and genitalia. Referred to as “complex” or “high-risk,” these areas of skin have a higher potential for recurrence as well as the need to conserve healthy tissue for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Mohs surgery has revolutionized the treatment of skin cancer and is the gold standard for treating these areas. Q: Can Mohs be used on other parts of the body? A: Yes, especially to treat aggressive tumors or when a patient has a compromised immune system. Q: How effective is Mohs surgery? A: It produces the highest cure rate with the smallest amount of healthy skin removal and scarring. Over the past 20 years, I have been gratified by the excellent results I have seen. Q: Can Mohs surgery be used for Melanoma and non-Melanoma skin cancer? A: In the hands of an experienced dermatologic surgeon, it can be used for Melanoma, Squamous cell cancer, and Basal cell cancer, when appropriate. © 2015 Advent Media Group Q: What do you recommend for skin cancer prevention? A: Avoid sun exposure during peak times, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., use broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen, and wear protective clothing when possible. We generally recommend an annual, full-body skin exam. For those with a history of skin cancer, we recommend an exam every six months or even more frequently, depending on the patient’s medical history. Q: What would you like readers to know about your practice? A: We strive to provide professional, compassionate care with a strong emphasis on the human touch. Our staff has been carefully selected to ensure that they can provide this type of service to each patient. We also provide services to communities that may not have a dermatologist or Mohs surgeon nearby. Cosmetic Treatments to Polish Your Look Dr. Adams’ office offers patients safe, comfortable, well-proven treatments for removal of unwanted hair, age spots, and vascular lesions. For those with moderate to severe frown lines, he recommends Botox® Cosmetic injections to achieve a smoother, more relaxed appearance.
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