Skin Cancer Facts

By Kenneth W. Neal, MD

Washington Dermatology Consultants

. https://www.wdcskin.com/

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Skin Cancer Facts

One of the most frightening words a patient can hear is “cancer.” More than one million people are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancers each year. These common cancers basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma can be detected and cured in early stages.

While melanoma only accounts for one percent of all cases, it is estimated that nearly 80,000 new cases will be diagnosed this year and have been on the rise over the past 30 years. Melanoma can also be detected in early stages.

Patients are encouraged to perform routine self-screenings and to schedule annual clinical evaluations. Every individual should be aware of changes in his or her skin.

Some of the risk factors that are associated with skin cancer include

Personal or family history of melanoma

Presence of many or large moles or a family history of unusual moles

Overexposure to sunlight or tanning beds

Fair complexion

Blue, green, or light eye color

Red or blond hair

Compromised immune system

Exposure to arsenic or radiation

Actinic keratosis

Self-examinations of the skin should be conducted regularly, in a well-lighted area using a full length and a handheld mirror to examine all areas of the body.

Warning Signs

Moles that have changed in color, size, texture, or thickness or have irregular borders

Moles or spots that appear in adulthood

Moles that are larger than 1/4 inch

Sores that do not heal in several weeks

Spots or sores that bleed, itch, scab, or cause pain

Skin growth that has a pearly, translucent, or colored appearance

If you see any of these warning signs, contact a dermatologist as soon as possible for evaluation. Patients who have never performed a self-screening would benefit from a professional evaluation which would show you what to look for and provide a baseline.