Annual Skin Screening
According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. It is the unrestrained growth of abnormal skin cells and can go unnoticed without screenings. An annual skin screening is a preventive physical examination performed by medical professionals to detect and identify skin cancer.
During this examination, the medical professional typically checks for moles, birthmarks and unusual growths. While screenings can help find signs of cancer, they cannot be used as diagnostic evidence. This means that if the doctor suspects you have skin cancer during the screening, you will need a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Skin cancer
Types of skin cancer
- Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the most commonly occuring forms of skin cancer. However, they are treatable. These two types of cancer occur on the parts of the skin that are exposed to the sun the most. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are comparatively less concerning than the other types.
- Melanoma skin cancer or malignant melanoma is the type of cancer that is most likely to grow and spread rather rapidly. While melanoma can develop anywhere on the skin, it is found commonly on the chest, neck, back and legs.
- Merkel cell skin cancer is much less common than melanoma, but it spreads quickly and can be hard to treat once it has spread.
- Lymphoma of the skin is cancer that originates in the cells of the immune system. The main types of lymphomas are Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Read more about the types of cancer on the American Cancer Society website.
Risk factors
A number of risk factors can make you more susceptible to skin cancer:
- People of all races are susceptible to skin cancer, however having fair skin increases your risk of skin cancer. Fair-skinned individuals have less pigment (melanin) in their skin, which would usually provide protection from UV rays.
- An excess of sun exposure is known to increase the chances of skin cancer. This includes UV-ray exposure to tanning lamps and tanning beds.
- A family history of skin cancer increases a person’s risk.
- Having a large number of moles.
Common questions and answers about annual skin screenings
Why should I get annual skin screenings?
With the skin being the largest and fastest-growing organ, it is best-advised to be on the safer side with timely screenings. Dermatologists suggest having a skin screening done at least once each year. If you haven’t had your body examined from head to toe for any suspicious moles or spots before, now is the right time to do so.
What to expect during an annual skin screening
- The skin cancer doctor will ask about your medical history, family history and lifestyle habits.
- A skin screening typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, on average.
- You will have to change into a medical gown before the doctor conducts a thorough head-to-toe examination, including your scalp and between your toes.
- Doctors are compelled to be overly cautious and scrutinize every suspicious spot, so don’t worry until you have the full context.
- If the doctor finds something unusual on your skin, you may need a skin biopsy.
Where can I find a dermatologist near me?
At Zocdoc.com! You can book an appointment with top-rated practitioners who perform annual skin screenings in your location. Booking is simple, secure and free! Not only this, but you can filter your search online to book with female dermatologists or with doctors who speak your preferred language.
What are some quick tips to help you with an annual skin screening?
- Write down questions you might have for your dermatologist in advance so you don’t forget to ask them.
- Reach out to your doctor’s office to learn about prescreening precautionary measures you may need to take before the appointment.
- Be sure to make a list of all the medications you’re taking.
- Discuss abnormalities on your skin such as moles, discoloration and growths.
- Check to ensure your insurance provider covers the dermatologist visit.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic
American Cancer Institute
MedlinePlus
American Cancer Society
