Skin Cancer Screening

About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, affecting over one million Americans each year. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime, making awareness and prevention critical for everyone, especially adults over 40 who are encouraged to schedule annual dermatologist exams. Early detection dramatically increases the odds of a cure, but individuals who have had skin cancer remain at higher risk for developing additional cancers in the future.​

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three major types of skin cancer, each with unique features:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common form, often appearing as a pearly bump or pinkish patch on sun-exposed skin like the face or neck. BCCs typically grow slowly and rarely spread, but can become invasive if untreated.​

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Usually shows up as a scaly, red nodule or patch, frequently on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, and hands. SCC is more likely than BCC to grow deeper and spread to other parts of the body if not caught early.​

• Melanoma: The least common, but the most dangerous skin cancer. Melanomas can develop in existing moles or as new spots, and are characterized by asymmetry, irregular borders, varied colors, and changing appearance. Melanoma spreads more easily and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.​

Importance of Regular Skin Checks

Regular self-examinations and yearly professional skin checks enable early detection, making most skin cancers highly curable when caught early. Early intervention saves lives, so it’s important to note any new, changing, or unusual spots and seek medical advice promptly if you notice concerning changes.