One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Despite these statistics, only about half of Americans say they regularly visit a dermatologist for skin cancer screenings.
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common, and although they are not usually fatal, they can be disfiguring if left untreated. Melanoma is less common but more dangerous; if not caught early, it can spread to other parts of the body and be fatal.
The good news is that skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Wearing sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and limiting your time in the sun can all help reduce your risk. But perhaps the best way to reduce your risk is to get regular skin cancer screenings.
There are two types of skin cancer screenings: visual exams and dermoscopic exams.
Visual Exams: During a visual exam, a dermatologist will visually inspect your entire body for any suspicious moles or growths. They will also check for any changes in size, shape, color, or texture of existing moles.
Dermoscopic Exams: During a dermoscopic exam, a dermatologist will use a handheld device called a dermatoscope to closely examine your moles and Growth patterns. This type of exam can often catch melanomas earlier than a visual exam because it allows the dermatologist to see beneath the surface of the skin.
You should start getting regular skin cancer screenings at age 50 or earlier if you have risks factors such as fair skin, a family history of skin cancer, or excessive sun exposure. If you have any suspicious moles or growths on your skin, you should see a dermatologist right away for further evaluation.
Regular skin cancer screenings are an important part of preventing skin cancer. There are two types of screenings: visual exams and dermoscopic exams. during which a doctor will visually inspect or closely examine your moles and growths for any suspicious changes in size shape color or texture Start getting screened at 50 years old or earlier if you have risks factors such as fair skin excessive sun exposure or a family history To learn more about how Skin Dermatology can help call us today at 386-256-1969 to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.
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