Spotting the Signs: How to Detect Skin Cancer Early
Did you know skin cancer is the most common type of cancer? Everyone who spends time out in the sun is at risk, so it’s important to be able to spot the warning signs of skin cancer, so it can be treated early. Our dermatologist can help. Dr. Richard Cirelli at Sunwest Dermatology and Skin Cancer Treatment Center in Prescott, AZ, offers a wide range of both medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
What You Need To Know About Skin Cancer
The key to skin cancer treatment is early detection because if skin cancer is treated early, it leads to a better outcome. This is especially important in cases of melanoma, the most aggressive type of skin cancer.
Everyone who spends time in the sun is at risk of developing skin cancer, but your risk increases if you:
- Sunburn easily
- Have light skin and freckles
- Have a previous history of skin cancer
- Have a family history of skin cancer
So, how do you spot the signs of skin cancer? You should perform a self-check of your skin regularly, and you need to look for:
- Changes in the color, shape, or size of a mole
- Skin changes occurring after a mole is removed
- Itchiness and oozing coming from a mole
- Large moles, with a diameter of 6 millimeters or more
- Ragged, irregularly shaped, or asymmetrical moles
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, you need to visit your dermatologist for a skin exam. You should also visit your dermatologist at least once each year for an annual skin exam, and more often if you are at high risk of developing skin cancer. In between visits, remember to protect your skin by:
- Avoiding using tanning booths
- Using an SPF of at least 30 every day
- Using an SPF of at least 50 if you are at high risk of skin cancer
- Staying out of direct sunlight between 10 AM and 2 PM
- Wearing protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses
Want To Know More?
To discover more about skin cancer prevention and spotting the signs of skin cancer, talk with your dermatologist. Call Dr. Richard Cirelli at Sunwest Dermatology and Skin Cancer Treatment Center in Prescott, AZ. You can reach him in the office by calling (928) 445-7546 (SKIN) so call today.