Skin cancer is a serious health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. The good news is that skin cancer can be detected early with regular screenings.
This greatly increases the chances of successful treatment. In this article, we will discuss the warning signs of skin cancer, when to start getting checked, and how to reduce your risk. Here is a more detailed discussion on skin cancer that you may also find helpful: https://thedermclinic.com.sg/skin-cancer/.
What are the Risks of Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is a disease in which skin cells grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumors. This disease is broken down in three types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common types of skin cancer and are usually not life-threatening. However, melanoma is more serious and can be deadly if not treated early.
The risks of developing skin cancer include a family history of the disease, fair skin, a history of sunburns, and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, people who have had five or more sunburns in their lifetime have twice the risk of developing melanoma.
What are the Seven Warning Signs of Skin Cancer?
As earlier mentioned, skin cancer is one of the most preventable, treatable, and curable forms of cancer. This is especially true when it is detected early.
That’s why knowing the warning signs of skin cancer is important. These signs can help you recognize potential problems and seek medical attention before cancer spreads or becomes more difficult to treat. Here are the seven warning signs of skin cancer that you should be aware of:
- A sore that doesn’t heal or one that heals and then reopens
- A spot or mole that changes in size, shape, or color
- A mole that becomes painful, itchy, or tender
- A spot or growth that looks shiny, waxy, or like a scar
- A firm, red lump that may bleed or become crusty
- A patch of skin that is rough and scaly or becomes raised and red
- A new growth on the skin that is different from other moles or growths on your body
If you notice any of these warning signs, see a dermatologist as soon as possible. They can perform a skin exam and, if necessary, perform a biopsy to determine if the spot or mole is cancerous.
When Should I Start Getting Checked for Skin Cancer?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain people are at higher risk than others. This includes people with fair skin, a history of sunburns, a family history of skin cancer, and those with weakened immune systems.
As for the best time to start getting checked for skin cancer, typically, it’s recommended to start your skin cancer screening in your 20s or 30s as a proactive measure to identify any signs of skin cancer early. However, it’s important to note that if you are at higher risk of developing skin cancer, you may need to start screening earlier or more frequently.
Also, as a general rule of thumb, everyone with a higher risk of skin cancer should have a full-body skin exam by a dermatologist once a year. This can help detect skin cancer early when it’s most treatable.
During the exam, the dermatologist will examine your skin from head to toe, looking for any suspicious moles or growths. They may also use a special tool called a dermatoscope to get a closer look at any moles or spots that look concerning.
In addition to seeing a dermatologist, it’s also important to perform self-exams regularly. This can help you become familiar with your skin and spot any changes early on. To perform a self-exam, stand in front of a full-length mirror and check your skin from head to toe.
To check hard-to-see areas like your scalp, or back, use a hand-held mirror. Look for any new moles, spots, or growths, and check existing ones for size, shape, or color changes.
If you notice any changes in your skin, make a point of seeing a dermatologist right away. Don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment, as early detection is key in treating skin cancer. Remember, skin cancer is highly treatable if caught early, so be proactive about your skin health and schedule regular screenings and self-exams.
Reducing Your Risks of Getting Skin Cancer
Reducing your risk of developing skin cancer is important for protecting your health and well-being. While regular skin screenings are an essential part of early detection and prevention, there are also steps you can take to minimize your risk of developing skin cancer.
These precautions include wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, seeking shade, avoiding tanning beds and sunlamps, and checking your skin regularly for any changes. Wearing protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, can shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
Sunscreen is another critical line of defense against skin cancer, with experts recommending the use of an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. It’s essential to apply sunscreen generously and reapply it every two hours when outside, especially after swimming or sweating.
Seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) is another way to reduce your risk of skin cancer. You’ll also want to avoid tanning beds and sunlamps since these can significantly increase your risk of skin cancer.
Not to forget, be checking your skin regularly for any changes. This is crucial in detecting and addressing potential warning signs early on. If you notice any changes in your skin, such as the development of a new mole, a change in an existing mole’s shape, size, or color, or any other unusual growth, see a dermatologist immediately.
The Bottom Line
Skin cancer screening is essential for the early detection and treatment of skin cancer. Everyone should be aware of the warning signs of skin cancer, and those at higher risk should have regular screenings.
By taking preventive measures and checking your skin regularly, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer and enjoy the outdoors safely. Don’t hesitate to see a dermatologist if you notice any changes in your skin, as early detection is key to successful treatment.
At The Dermatology Clinic, we are committed to helping you keep your skin healthy and beautiful. Whether you need a skin cancer screening or want to learn more about preventive measures, our experienced dermatologists are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a lifetime of healthy skin.
The Dermatology Clinic | ADULT & PAEDIATRIC DERMATOLOGY AND SKIN SPECIALIST
321 Joo Chiat Pl,
#05-01A Parkway East Specialist Hospital,
Singapore 427990
+6590230905
