Skin cancer is among the most common cancer types in the United States. Early screening can help identify abnormal moles or changes in your skin that may indicate skin cancer, improving treatment outcomes.
Risk Factors:
Individuals with the following risk factors have an increased likelihood of developing skin cancer and should prioritize regular screenings:
- Light skin that burns, freckles, or reddens easily
- Blue or green eyes, blond or red hair
- History of sunburns or frequent UV exposure (including tanning beds)
- Family or personal history of melanoma or other skin cancers
- A large number of moles or atypical (irregular) moles
- Older age or male gender
Symptoms:
Stay vigilant for symptoms such as:
- New growths or unusual moles
- Changes in size, color, shape, or feel of existing moles
- Persistent sores that do not heal
Report these to your primary care provider or a dermatologist promptly.
Screening:
Skin cancer screenings typically involve a visual skin examination by a healthcare professional, who will assess moles and skin changes for signs of cancer. Patients may also be advised on self-examinations using the “ABCDE” rule:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Color variations
- Diameter over 6mm
- Evolving size or appearance