Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Over a million people are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma every year. Roughly 62,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, each year.
Skin cancer, regardless of type, typically manifests as visible abnormal changes in the skin that can be spotted by the patient or their primary care doctor. Since other skin problems can cause such changes, the patient has to visit a dermatologist for a diagnosis.
What is skin cancer screening?
Catching skin cancer early is the best way to ensure a successful treatment. If they are found early, about 95 percent of basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas can be cured.
A skin cancer screening is a visual inspection of the skin conducted by a dermatologist. It typically takes around ten minutes. Depending on your needs and concerns, the skin cancer screening may consist of a full-body exam, or our doctor may only examine certain areas. During the screening, you should bring up any patches of skin that worry you, including any of the following:
• A mole or freckle that has changed over time
• A sore that won’t heal
• Asymmetrical moles or birthmarks
If you find anything suspicious during a self-exam, you should schedule an appointment for a skin cancer screening as soon as possible.
How often should someone undergo a screening?
If you are an adult with an increased risk of skin cancer, you should regularly undergo skin cancer screenings. Everyone, regardless of skin cancer risk, should perform self-exams every month and have their skin examined as part of a routine check-up.
What are the risk factors of skin cancer?
There are a number of physical and environmental factors that can increase the risk of skin cancer, including the following:
• Personal or family history of skin cancer
• Personal or family history of actinic keratosis (pre-cancerous growth)
• Excessive number of moles
• Abnormal moles
• Red hair and freckles
• Treatments for other types of cancer
• Too much sun exposure
• At least one sunburn that resulted in blisters
• Frequent use of tanning salons
What is a skin self-exam?
A self-exam consists of examining your own skin from head to toe. Ideally, you should perform the exam in front of a full-length mirror in a well-lit room. You may even want to use a hand-held mirror to examine hard-to-see places like the scalp or back.
Start by examining your head and face and gradually work your way down to the feet. Be thorough and check places such as behind the ears, between the fingers and around the genitals. Women should also examine the skin on the underside of the breasts.
If you find anything of concern, schedule an appointment with the medical professionals at Supriya Aesthetic Dermatology. We serve the West Palm Beach, Jupiter and surrounding areas with comprehensive medical and aesthetic dermatological care. To receive a skin cancer screening and take charge of your health, schedule your consultation with us today.