The process of detecting skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States, can be practiced with a monthly self-examination, along with an annual visit to your doctor. Early detection is key because, if diagnosed early, skin cancer is almost always cured.
There are three main types of skin cancer, all of which will be visible if you know what to look for. Melanoma, one of the main forms of skin cancer, is the most deadly. The disease is most difficult to prevent once it has spread throughout the body, so it is important to detect and treat it in a timely manner. Skin cancer, of any type, can usually be successfully treated in its early stages.
As a person, everyone has freckles, birthmarks and moles. These are part of you, and you are used to seeing them, but you may not immediately notice the slightest change, and you need to keep looking. Any changes in the shape, edge, size or color of the mole should be checked by a doctor. If the mole is larger than a pencil eraser or if its color is a shade of gray instead of solid color, these are both potential warning signs of skin cancer. The border of the mole should be well-defined and, if that is no longer the case, inform your doctor. In addition, any wound that does not heal or a mole that grows rapidly should be examined immediately.
The decision to seek medical attention is difficult. For this reason, it is best to choose a doctor who is comfortable with you, such as a family doctor. He or she may examine your skin and refer you to a dermatologist if necessary. The presence of skin cancer is determined by removing all or part of the suspected area and examining it with a microscope. Surgery is often used to remove skin cancer and, if performed in the early stages, can be a very quick procedure. There is a possibility of scarring, but the doctor may be able to completely remove all the cancer cells with just a small incision.
If the cancer has spread, or is too large in the defined area, additional surgery may be necessary. In that case, chemotherapy or radiation treatments may be ordered to ensure that the cancer is completely removed. Your doctor will be able to answer all the questions you may have and should not be reserved. When meeting with a doctor, ask for an explanation of all treatment options, including the likelihood of success in your particular case. Deciding to seek medical attention is a big step, and a patient should be mentally prepared.
This article should not be construed as professional medical advice. If you, or someone you know, are concerned about the possibility of cancer, you should seek medical attention immediately. A physician may discuss various options, prevention, and treatment options if cancer is detected. A series of tests can be performed to confirm or deny any such diagnosis and can only be performed by a medical doctor.
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