Watch on Demand


Doctors: Melanoma risk in Nebraska, Iowa higher than national average

Doctors: Melanoma risk in Nebraska, Iowa higher than national average

One in two Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their life time, and skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. Melanoma is one of the more dangerous types.

In Nebraska and Iowa, according to doctors, melanoma is a "little higher than national average," due to the industries we have and the amount of sun exposure they require.


Doctors recommend to use sunscreens that are generally higher in SPF levels. Officials recommend SPF-30, especially for youth.

"Young children getting a bad sunburn at a young age increases their risk of getting melanoma, "said Dr. Ralph Hauke of Nebraska Cancer Specialists. "In particular, I call out to parents to make it a habit to make sure their children grow up with that concept of being well-protected from the sun."

Hauke offered some tips in fighting melanoma:

- Wear appropriate clothing outdoors, including hats
- Wear light sunscreen
- Minimize full exposure to sunlight
- Stay aware from the sun during the noon hour

Hauke says one way to look at the early warning signs of melanoma is to look for moles. He offered the following advice:

- Look at ASYMMETRY: Is the mole different on each side?
- Look at BORDERS: Are they irregular or jagged?
- Look at the CHANGES IN COLOR: Has its appearance changed over time?

Hauke says for one population, the risk is high.

"It's an epidemic in young women," said Hauke. "We've seen a dramatic rise in young women. It's unfortunate when you see a woman in her young 20's having to start a life dying from melanoma."

Hauke's advice is very critical as Omaha pools begin to open for the season. To find a list of when your nearest pool opens, click here.