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Are you at risk for skin cancer?
Posted on: 06/27/2011
Did you know?
Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, accounting for nearly half of all cancers in the U.S. Basal and sarcoma skin cancers (non-melanomas) are easily treated if caught early. Melanoma, however, is a far more serious skin cancer that appears in both young adults and older individuals. Treatable if caught early; deadly if not, melanoma is the best reason to see a dermatologist on a regular basis. Simple and painless, a thorough skin cancer check may be the easiest thing you can do to save your own life.
Causes
In genetically susceptible people, ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. But artificial radiation from sun lamps and tanning booths can also cause skin cancer.
Are you at risk?
You may suffer from melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers if you have any of the following symptoms or risk factors:
- Current unprotected and/or excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
- A fair complexion, red or blonde hair, blue eyes
- Occupational exposures to coal tar, pitch, creosote, arsenic compounds, or
- radium
- A family history of skin cancer
- Multiple moles
- Severe sunburns as a child
Symptoms
Skin cancers are rarely painful. The most common first symptom of skin cancer is a change in the skin, such as a new growth or a sore that doesn't heal. When it starts, skin cancer may appear as:
- A small, smooth, shiny, pale, or waxy lump
- A firm red lump
- A lump that bleeds or develops a crust
- A flat, red spot that is rough, dry, or scaly
Skin cancers are found mainly on areas exposed to the sun: head, face, ears, neck, hands and arms. However, skin cancer can occur anywhere.
These symptoms may also be caused by other, less serious health conditions. A person experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor if they last for more than two weeks.
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. If you have a growth like those listed above, your doctor may treat it in the office. This involves removing all or part of the lesion and sending it to the laboratory for a biopsy.
In cases where the growth is very large or has been present for a long time, the doctor will carefully check the lymph nodes in the area. You may also need to have more tests to find out if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
What can you do?
Schedule an appointment with a Minor & James Medical dermatologist. Our board-certified doctors will perform a simple, painless and thorough head-to-toe skin check to determine if you have any current areas of concern. They can also show you ways to protect your skin now and in the future.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 206-386-9540.
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