Cancer is a condition that happens because of the abnormal growth of cells, and there are different types of cancer depending on the body part affected. Today, skin cancer is among the most common types of cancer in the US, affecting about one out of three individuals in Texas. However, early detection of cancerous skin lesions increases your probability of full recovery. At Northstar Dermatology, the board-certified and experienced dermatologists offer full-body skin cancer screenings in Fort Worth, Texas, for early detection of any abnormal skin lesions. For more consultations, call or schedule an appointment online today.
What Exactly is Skin Cancer?
This refers to the abnormal growth that happens in your skin cells. There are many types of skin cancers, including melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. Squamous and basal cell carcinoma are the main skin cancer types and tend to develop slowly. In contrast, melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer and tends to grow fast. More than a million individuals are diagnosed with skin cancer annually. Undertaking skin cancer screenings can help in the early detection of cancerous skin lesions when you have a higher chance of undertaking effective treatment.
Who Requires Skin Cancer Screenings?
While skin cancer might occur to anyone, risk factors might increase the probability of developing skin cancer. You should consider scheduling a comprehensive skin cancer screening if you have a higher risk of getting skin cancer.
Some of the risk factors include:
- Fair, light skin
- Excessive sun exposure
- A history of blistering sunburns
- Personal or family history of skin cancer
- Blonde or red hair
- Actinic keratosis
- Freckled skin
- History of atypical moles or more than 50 moles
- A weak immune system
- Exposure to radiation or toxins.
The best way to lower your skin cancer chances is to protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen year-round and wearing protective clothing and hats.
What Should You Expect During Skin Cancer Screenings?
A skin cancer screening is an entire-body examination focused on managing and preventing skin cancer. When you go for skin cancer screening at Northstar Dermatology, the dermatologist will give you an exam gown to change into. They will then examine your skin throughout your body to identify freckles, moles, lesions, and abnormal growth.
What Occurs After Skin Cancer Screening?
After the skin cancer screening session, the dermatologist will review your findings. If they find any abnormal skin lesions, they might recommend you to undertake a biopsy to establish if it is skin cancer or not. You will also be educated about the preventative measures to protect your skin, including wearing sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and using sunscreen. You will also be told how to identify skin abnormalities through at-home skin screenings.
Most cancerous cases are treatable when they are found early. Having routine skin cancer screenings is the best way to detect these diseases before they cause serious health problems. Talk to your dermatologist when you notice abnormalities on your skin, and anytime you require skin cancer screening. Call or book an appointment online with Northstar Dermatology in Fort Worth, Texas, today.
