Skin Cancer Screening

We all know about the dangers of cancer—skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society and the CDC. Visiting a dermatologist for skin cancer screenings is crucial; read on to find out why they are so important.

• Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early. The survival rate is very high for cases that are found before the cancer spreads or becomes the most dangerous type of skin cancer, melanoma. Even melanoma has a five-year survival rate of about 98% if it’s diagnosed and treated before it spreads to other areas of the body.
• A skin screening lets your dermatologist evaluate your skin on a regular basis, so you both will notice right away if something has changed or the appearance of your skin is altered. Skin spots can immediately be examined, and your doctor can quickly make a decision about how to treat you.
• Some moles or spots can be removed before they even become cancerous. If, during your routine skin cancer examination, your dermatologist finds a pre-cancerous lesion, then it can be surgically removed before it becomes a malignant. You and your doctor will reevaluate that spot during your next screening, and you’ll know to be watching for abnormal growth in specific areas.
• If you have a skin cancer screening and your dermatologist finds potentially cancerous growth, then he or she can remove it right away. The mole or spot can be sent to the lab for analysis and you can begin treatment as necessary.

by: Dermatology Associates Of Northern Virginia

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