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Colorado Farmers, Ranchers and Outdoor Workers Face Higher Skin Cancer Risk of Skin Cancer
Description: Vanguard Skin Specialists urges rural Coloradans, farmers, ranchers and outdoor workers to protect against skin cancer with sunscreen, skin checks and early detection.
Skin Cancer Awareness
Farmers, ranchers and those who recreate outdoors at higher risk
(La Junta, CO May 15,2026) - Vanguard Skin Specialists, a southern Colorado dermatology and plastic surgery practice, wants to remind rural communities of skin cancer risks.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Fortunately, skin cancer is curable if caught early and easily preventable with sun protection.
The primary risk factor for skin cancer is cumulative exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. High risk professions include pilots, construction workers, farmers, ranchers, linemen and those who spend significant time working outdoors.
In Colorado, we live a mile above sea level, which puts us one mile closer to the sun. Combined with the 300 plus days of sunshine and an active outdoor lifestyle, Coloradoans carry a higher risk of skin cancer.
The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas are the most frequently diagnosed and usually develop on areas with the most sun exposure, like the face, ears, neck, and hands. Melanoma is less common but more dangerous.
Regular skin checks are critical for early diagnosis. Look for new growths, sores that do not heal, or changes in existing moles. Warning signs include asymmetry, irregular borders, changes in color, increasing size, or any spot that itches, bleeds, or becomes painful.
Because some areas such as the back or scalp are difficult to see, help from a spouse, caregiver or healthcare provider can be invaluable.
Prevention remains one of the most powerful tools against skin cancer. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it regularly when outdoors. Long sleeve clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses provide additional protection. Seeking shade during peak sun hours, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., also reduces risk.
"Most skin cancers are curable if caught early. Early detection leads to early treatment and an early cure," states Vinh Chung, Board-certified Dermatologist and Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon at Vanguard Skin Specialists. "We recommend an annual total body skin exam by a dermatologist or your primary care doctor. If you have a concerning spot on your skin, we will see you within one week."
It is never too late to protect your skin. By staying vigilant, practicing skin safety, and scheduling regular checkups, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of skin cancer and maintain healthier skin well into later life.
Founded in 2009, Vanguard has grown from a solo practitioner to a practice with more than twenty medical providers across ten offices from Castle Rock to Pueblo.
For more information, contact our La Junta clinic, located at 1100 Carson Ave. inside Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center, at (719) 355-1585 or visit VanguardSkin.com.
