Utah Mom’s Sunscreen Obsession Didn’t Prevent Skin Cancer

A Utah mother’s small, dry patch on her nose, initially dismissed as winter skin, was diagnosed as basal cell carcinoma. Amanda Anderson, 43, was shocked by the diagnosis despite being ’obsessed’ with sun cream. After a initial treatment failed, a biopsy confirmed the cancer, leading to specialized Mohs surgery.

The procedure involved removing thin layers of skin until no cancer remained, leaving a penny-sized hole that required reconstructive surgery. Amanda reflected on growing up in sunny Arizona during a time when tanning was fashionable and sunscreen was not widely used, highlighting that sun damage is often done in youth.

Now recovered, she is a vocal advocate for skin protection, urging parents to instill healthy habits in their children. She emphasizes that skin cancer is highly preventable and treatable if caught early, encouraging everyone to take any unusual skin changes seriously.

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