Skin Cancer and Why it is Important to Get an Annual Skin Exam

Posted by: Skin And Cancer Institute in Medical Dermatology

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, with millions of cases diagnosed each year. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Fortunately, skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. That’s where an SCI dermatologist can help.

SCI dermatologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions, including skin cancer. We have extensive training and experience in identifying and treating skin cancer, as well as in performing annual skin exams to check for any suspicious moles or lesions.

During a skin exam, an SCI dermatologist will carefully examine the patient’s skin from head to toe, looking for any unusual growths or changes in the skin’s appearance. They may also use a dermatoscope, a special tool that magnifies the skin’s surface, to get a closer look at any suspicious spots.

If the SCI dermatologist detects any suspicious growths, they may perform a biopsy to determine if the growth is cancerous. If it is cancerous, the dermatologist will work with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan.

It’s important to note that skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin color or ethnicity. While fair-skinned individuals are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer, people with darker skin tones can also develop the disease, often with more severe outcomes.

That’s why it’s crucial for everyone to have an annual skin exam, even if they don’t have a history of skin cancer or haven’t noticed any suspicious growths. An annual skin exam can help detect skin cancer in its early stages when it’s most treatable.

In addition to annual skin exams, there are steps individuals can take to protect themselves from skin cancer, including:

In conclusion, skin cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, but it’s highly treatable when detected early. By scheduling an annual skin exam with a SCI dermatologist and taking steps to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV radiation, you can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and enjoy healthy, beautiful skin for years to come.

Call us to speak to a member of our patient service center.

Skin and Cancer Institute operates 40+ locations throughout California, Nevada, and Arizona! Our practices are conveniently located in and near major counties and cities such as Los Angeles , Las Vegas and Phoenix . Our practices offer a wide variety of dermatology services including skin cancer treatments and cosmetic procedures utilizing various types of lasers.

Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Accessibility Statement

Originally published on Skin & Cancer Institute: https://skinandcancerinstitute.com/skin-cancer-and-why-it-is-important-to-get-an-annual-skin-exam/