The Importance of Annual Skin Cancer Screenings

Did you know that skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among U.S. citizens? Twenty percent of Americans will get skin cancer at some point in their lives. No one is immune; people of all races and colors are at risk of developing skin cancer. This emphasizes the importance of getting regular skin cancer screenings.

There are quite a few types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, actinic keratosis, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Although basal cell and squamous cell are the most common forms, melanoma is responsible for the most deaths. However, when detected early, it has a very high cure rate, which is why it is so important to be screened for skin cancer every year.

Skin Cancer Screenings

Skin cancer screenings involve the careful examination of the skin for signs of skin cancer before any serious issues develop. This helps us catch it at an early stage, dramatically improving the odds of defeating it. If the cancer is not detected before symptoms appear, the cancer may have started to spread.

Scientists are constantly attempting to find out which people are most susceptible to developing certain forms of cancer. They are studying the environment to see what may cause the cancer, which helps experts decide which individuals should be screened and how often.

You can have a full body screen if the screening is in a private setting. Full body exams are recommended by The American Academy of Dermatology whenever possible.

Self-Examination for Melanoma

Although melanoma is the least common type of skin cancer, it is also the deadliest. However, the risk drops dramatically when it is detected early through regular skin cancer screenings.
It is important to do a self-check on your skin periodically in addition to scheduling skin cancer screenings. Familiarize yourself with any moles, freckles, or blemishes so that you will be aware of any changes that may indicate the development of skin cancer.

You should conduct your self-exam under good lighting in front of a full-length mirror. You can also use a hand-held mirror to examine hard-to-see parts of your body, such as your back and your thighs.

Thoroughly examine all body parts. The back is where one-third of melanomas occur. You can also have friends or family help you with your exam in hard-to-see areas.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Believe it or not, coming to the Center for Dermatology in Lawrenceville for annual skin cancer screenings could save your life. We proudly serve men and women in the Suwanee, Dacula, Duluth, Buford, Snellville and surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule a skin exam!