Skin Cancer Screening – What You Need to Know

Are you looking for a medical dermatologist? Perhaps you’ve noticed changes in your skin recently and want to be screened for skin cancer? If so, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Sauceda, who provides skin cancer screening in San Antonio. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the USA due to the warm climate. If you notice any changes or unusual marks anywhere on your body, it’s important to get them checked out as soon as possible.

What is skin cancer screening?

Having a skin exam could save your life. During this type of examination, the doctor will look at your skin for imperfections such as moles, blemishes, and birthmarks. The doctor will ask you if you’ve noticed any changes to moles or if you have any skin damage and will take particular care to check these areas.

Tell the doctor if you’ve recently noticed changes to the color or texture of your skin. Perhaps you have a blemish that has changed its shape or increased in size? Having unusual markings on your skin could be a sign of skin cancer. However, it’s important not to panic as sun damage, aging, and other factors can also cause changes.

Different Types of skin cancer

There are three different types of skin cancers that vary in severity and how they respond to treatment. The two most common types are called basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancers. These two types of cancers are usually found in one area of the body and don’t spread if left untreated. It is vital to seek diagnosis and treatment. These two types of skin cancer are curable as they are very receptive to treatment.

There is also another type of skin cancer called melanoma. This is rarer but is also more aggressive and could be life-threatening. Melanoma can quickly spread and affect other areas of the body and is the cause of most skin cancer deaths.

Who Needs Skin Cancer Screening?

Having regular skin cancer screenings is a good idea if you are at risk of developing skin cancer. Screenings help to reduce skin cancer deaths as they allow doctors to diagnose and treat cancer earlier. Skin cancer screening is not used to diagnose cancer. A biopsy will need to be carried out before a final diagnosis can be made.

Regular skin cancer screening is recommended if you have pale skin, freckles, red or blond hair, or if you’re quickly burned by the sun. You’ll also be at a higher risk of developing skin cancer if you have a family history of the disease. You can carry out regular skin examinations at home yourself. Look out for changes in your skin and see a doctor if you have noticed any changes to moles or blemishes. Look for moles or spots that won’ t heal or that seem flaky or pearly white. Also, look out for translucent bumps and moles with irregular borders as these may bleed more easily.