WHAT’S UP WITH NAIL FUNGUS?
As a condition, nail fungus is one of those ailments you find yourself wondering: who do I go to for treatment? The most common type of nail fungus is that which affects the toes -- primarily our big toe.
When you hear about cancer awareness, typically what comes to mind would be more common forms of cancer: breast cancer, skin cancer, lung cancer, etc. It’s an undeniable truth that every form of cancer deserves its own awareness and research funding...but when it comes to skin cancer, don’t you often think of the skin on our faces, chests, or arms where we get the most sun exposure? It makes sense because more people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer each year than anywhere else in the world.
However, this is exactly why it’s so important to cover these areas as often as we can to protect them from sun exposure. If we must have them bare to the sun, the next best thing to do is use a high SPF spray or cream to keep us protected. We’re missing a vital piece of the puzzle, though...and it’s been right under our noses our entire lives! That’s right, our feet. Think about it; when was the last time you ever put sunscreen on your feet when heading outside with sandals or flip-flops on? If you said never, it’s never too late to start.
Studies have shown that nearly 90% of skin cancer cases are due to over-exposure to the ultra-violet light found in sunlight. The delicate skin on the tops of our toes and feet are sensitive and just as susceptible to developing skin cancer as our shoulders, face, or anywhere else on our bodies that are most often exposed to sunlight. This is why it’s just as important to apply sunscreen to the skin of your feet as it is to your face, shoulders, chest, and elsewhere. Pay it forward and tell a friend or two about the benefit of applying sunscreen to their feet this summer season!
As always, if you suspect anything might be off with your feet or ankles, call and schedule your next appointment at Grand Central Footcare with our certified podiatrists Dr. Les J. Glubo and Dr. Dawn O. Figlo in New York City at 212-697-3293. We’re always here to help!
