Have you ever had a skin exam? Have you had a doctor check you for signs of skin cancer this year? We suggest all adults see the Bowral doctors once in a year for a skin examination. Do you know that one in every three cancers diagnosed is skin cancer? According to WHO, 132000 Melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed each year all around the world. Besides, regardless of where you are in the globe, skin cancers are still a concern.
Skin Cancers are of three types:
- Basal cell carcinoma: This is slow-growing cancer, it starts as an irregular spot on the skin.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: These are more likely to spread. These also start as an irregular patch or spot on the skin.
- Melanoma: Melanoma, the most aggressive type makes up 2% of cancers. It starts with an irregular mole.
A scoop on Skin Cancer Screening:
Before you visit your dentist, make sure you check yourself first. Do a self-exam and make a note of any unusual, changing, new, or irritated spots. Trust your instincts, and when you see your dentist on a visit, make sure to address him any areas of concern.
Make sure you remove nail polish from your toenails and fingernails before the appointment. Skin cancers can also appear in the nail beds, so your doctor will check your nails. It is a good idea to go without makeup to the doctor’s office.
Don’t be anxious. Skin cancer screening is quick and easy. You may be sitting or lying down, and the doctor will check your skin. He might also use a small device known as a dermatoscope that is painless to have a close look at spots, sore, or a mole. He may also refer Bowral medical imaging.
Is he finds a suspicious spot, he might take a biopsy. Biopsy means removing a part or all of the lesion for lab analysis. It just will take a minute, and you will feel nothing.
If the report comes back to be negative for skin cancer, no worries, you are alright. However, if the report says that the spot is skin cancer, your doctor will explain to you what it is and what type of treatment would you need. Remember, early detection of skin cancer Bowral is vital to the cost-effective and most minimal therapy with the highest chance of cure. Don’t put off the skin exam, call the dentist, and make your appointment soon.
Who should get Skin Cancer Screening?
If you are at an increased risk of skin cancer, you might need a skin exam. You might be at an increased risk for skin cancer if you have
- More than 50 moles
- Fair skin
- Blue or light coloured eyes
- One or more blistering or sunburns
- History of intense or frequent sun exposure
- Personal history of squamous cell or basal cell carcinoma
- Family history of melanoma
Even if you are not at an increased risk, it is better to keep an eye on your skin. Apart from skin cancer screening, if you notice any irregular spot or mole on your skin, schedule an appointment with Bowral doctors for an exam.
