Skin Cancer

Center for Dermatology

Proudly serving Lawrenceville, Suwanee, Duluth, Buford, Dacula, Sugar Hill, Auburn, Snellville, Loganville, Grayson, Winder, and surrounding area.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, affecting roughly 1 in 5 Americans at some point in their life. Fortunately, when it’s caught early, skin cancer is extremely treatable. That’s why board-certified dermatologist Abdul Hafeez, MD, offers skin cancer screenings and treatment at the Center for Dermatology in Lawrenceville, Georgia. To protect your skin from skin cancer, call the office or request an appointment online today.

770-682-2500

Skin Cancer Q & A

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when your skin cells grow at an abnormal rate. Sun exposure and tanning beds increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

There are the most common types of skin cancer:

Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It starts in your skin’s lower layer, also known as the basal layer. Basal cell carcinoma can look like a sore that won’t heal, a shiny nodule, or a raised pink patch of skin. This type of cancer usually doesn’t spread past your skin but, when left untreated, can destroy large areas of your skin.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma usually looks like a nodule on your skin that’s firm to the touch, an open sore, or a red, scaly patch of skin. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other organs, so early detection is crucial.

Melanoma

You can use the ABCDEs to check for melanoma. You should be suspicious of moles that have:

A: Asymmetry
B: Borders that are irregular
C: Coloring that’s uneven or inconsistent
D: Diameters larger than a pencil eraser
E: Evolutions, meaning the mole changes shape, size, or elevation

Melanoma often spreads quickly to the lymph nodes. Consequently, it is critical to check your moles at home regularly and schedule regular skin cancer screenings at the Center for Dermatology.

When caught in its early stages, melanoma has a 99% cure rate. You can also actively work to protect your skin by seeking shade, wearing hats, and using sunscreen whenever you’re outdoors, especially for extended periods of time. It should also be noted that there is a genetic component melanoma.

How do I prevent skin cancer?

You can do two key things to protect yourself against skin cancer. The first is to protect yourself from the sun. That means avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen when you’re outdoors.

Secondly, you should schedule yearly screenings at the Center for Dermatology, so Dr. Hafeez can check your skin for suspicious moles or growths.

How is skin cancer treated?

If your provider catches skin cancer early on, it’s easier to treat. Basal cells can sometimes be treated with topical creams, while many other forms of skin cancer can be removed during an in-office surgical procedure using local anesthesia.

The providers at the Center for Dermatology are extremely well-versed in dermatologic surgery and work with you to remove the cancer.

To be proactive about your skin cancer screening, call the Center for Dermatology, or request an appointment online.