Dissatisfaction with your body can be dangerous. A study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found that those who are most pleased with how their body looks are more likely than others to perform thorough skin self-exams, and thus spot melanoma in its early stages.
Poor body image is closely correlated with low self-esteem, and numerous other studies have found that those down on themselves are less likely to use preventive health services such as cancer screenings. Those suffering from depression might feel that preventive care isn't worthwhile. Plus, depression can reduce cognitive functioning, which is necessary for remembering and carrying out regular health management tasks. The best way to keep your body healthy could be to mind your mind.—Wei Hsuan Lin
See Spot, Run to Your Doc
How to do a thorough self-exam after a summer in the sun
What you should do:
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Examine your body—front and back—in the mirror, then both sides with arms raised.
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Check your forearms, upper underarms, palms, the backs of your legs, feet, and toes.
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Examine your back, buttocks, neck, and scalp with a hand mirror.
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Look for changes in size, thickness, outline, color, shape, or texture in birthmarks, blemishes, or moles.
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