Why You Should Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening Every Year

Skin cancer is a big problem in the US and across the world. Did you know that as many as one in every five Americans gets skin cancer in their lifetime and two US citizens die every hour from the disease? That’s pretty scary statistics…

If that’s not enough to persuade you that a skin check-up should be on your annual to-do list, then consider this:

If a skin malignancy is diagnosed early enough then there’s a 99% survival rate. That’s a pretty solid reason to get your regular checks in.

Read on to discover everything you need to know about skin cancer screening.

All About Skin Cancer Screening

• Why do I need to be screened for skin cancer?
• Doesn’t skin cancer only affect people with certain characteristics?
• Why regular skin cancer check ups can save your life

Why do I need to be screened for skin cancer?

When we talk about skin cancer, we’re usually discussing the time when skin cells become malignant. In other words, cancer has occurred. However, there are precancerous stages, as well as being able to highlight moles or skin areas that might be more predisposed to become cancerous if left to their own devices.

Anyone of any age can get skin cancer. While scientists have determined features and lifestyles that might increase the chances of skin malignancy, it should never be a case of, “it can’t happen to me”.

Doesn’t skin cancer only affect people with certain characteristics?

It’s true that certain factors can increase the risk factor of contracting skin cancer. However, just because they might not apply to you, don’t make the mistake of thinking you’re immune.

The following are known characteristics that can increase a person’s chance of being diagnosed:

• Having very fair skin
• Having red or blonde hair
• Having lots of moles or moles of a certain type
• A history of excessive sun exposure
• Skin that burns easily in the sun
• A family history of skin cancer
• A previous skin cancer

Why regular skin cancer check ups can save your life 

Skin cancer screening is done when you have no symptoms of the disease. It is purely a precautionary measure and is aimed at either catching a problem before it worsens or identifying areas that should be monitored. 

Screening is a wise move at any age, but especially once you reach the age of 50. You should also carry out regular home checks (every month) to determine any changes in the shape, looks, color, or size of any moles. 

The whole idea of both self and professional skin cancer screening is to establish a baseline of how the skin on your body normally is. Once you know this, it becomes easier to see if there are any changes. 

The ABCDE approach is what’s used to characterize moles. It stands for:

• Asymmetry: moles are generally a nice even shape. Asymmetry can be indicative of a problem.
• Border: non-cancerous moles tend to have even, well-defined borders. Cancerous ones have irregular or poorly defined borders.
• Color: benign moles tend to be a uniform color. Malignant moles might be two or even three colors or shades.
• Diameter: healthy moles are usually the size of a pencil or less. Larger moles are more at risk.
• Evolving: moles that are changing in size, shape, or color should always be checked out.

Book your Skin Cancer Screening at Bayou City Dermatology Today

If you’re reading this, then there’s no better time to book your skin cancer screen than right now. Bayou City Dermatology offers a comprehensive, fast, and value-for-money service that you can easily fit in during your lunch hour or after work.

So don’t put off your annual check any longer. Visit https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/clinical/skin-cancerto find out more about our services and pick up the phone right now. It might just be the most important call you ever make…