Key Takeaway:
- TRICARE covers annual preventive skin cancer exams for eligible beneficiaries, often without copayments.
- Health experts warn UV exposure increases skin cancer risk, even on cloudy days or near reflective surfaces like water and sand.
- Doctors urge early detection by monitoring melanoma warning signs, including changes in mole shape, color, size, or appearance.
TRICARE is urging beneficiaries to prioritize prevention through the TRICARE skin cancer screening program ahead of summer, highlighting expanded awareness efforts and annual covered exams as ultraviolet exposure increases during outdoor activities.
“Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S.,” said Jeannine Pickrell, director of population health at TRICARE. “It’s also often preventable and treatable if caught early.”
The military health care program said skin cancer screenings are covered through its Health Promotion and Disease Prevention examinations. TRICARE generally covers one preventive exam each year without copayments, and providers determine whether patients meet screening risk factors.
Those eligible for skin cancer exams include people with a personal or family history of skin cancer, frequent occupational or recreational sun exposure, or suspicious skin lesions identified during medical visits. Officials said the TRICARE skin cancer screening initiative is designed to encourage early detection and prevention.
TRICARE covers annual skin cancer exams
TRICARE officials said the initiative comes as warmer weather drives more outdoor recreation and extended sun exposure. Ultraviolet, or UV, rays from the sun remain the leading cause of skin cancer because they damage skin cells over time.
Health experts warn that UV exposure does not occur only on hot or sunny days. Rays can penetrate clouds and reflect from surfaces including water, sand, cement, and snow.
The program encourages beneficiaries to schedule annual exams and discuss unusual skin changes with health care providers. Preventive screenings are part of broader federal efforts to reduce cancer risks through early detection. Health officials say the TRICARE skin cancer screening program plays an important role in identifying risks before they become severe.
Health experts warn UV exposure raises cancer risk
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends extra protection when the UV Index reaches three or higher. Suggested measures include staying in the shade, wearing protective clothing, and using broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of at least 15.
Officials also recommend wide-brimmed hats and wraparound sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
The Uniformed Services University has also published military-specific sun safety guidance for service members and families who spend extended periods outdoors.
Medical experts say repeated sunburns and long-term UV exposure can accelerate skin aging and increase cancer risks later in life. Experts added that regular participation in TRICARE skin cancer screening can improve the chances of early diagnosis and successful treatment.
Doctors urge early detection of melanoma signs
TRICARE and federal health agencies are emphasizing awareness of melanoma, considered the most serious form of skin cancer. Doctors encourage patients to monitor skin changes using the “ABCDE” warning signs for suspicious moles or spots.
The signs include asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven color, a diameter larger than a pea, and evolving appearance over time.
Health officials advise people to seek medical attention for new growths, sores that do not heal, or changes in existing moles.
The National Cancer Institute said early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes for most skin cancers.
TRICARE officials said prevention and regular screenings remain the best defense against the disease as summer approaches. They emphasized that the TRICARE skin cancer screening program is available to help eligible beneficiaries stay proactive about their skin health.
