Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer and affects more than a million Americans each year. While many people may not think of skin cancer as being a serious concern, the truth is that it can be a life-threatening disease if it is not caught and treated early. That is why it is so important to have regular skin cancer exams.
At Trillium Creek Dermatology, our team of experts understands the importance of regular skin cancer exams. We believe that everyone should have access to quality care and prevention, so we provide skin cancer exams to our patients in Medina, Wooster, Brunswick, and Wadsworth, Ohio.
What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Exam
When you come in for a skin cancer exam, we will start by doing a visual inspection of your skin. During this process, you will undress to your level of comfort and wear a gown during the exam. We will look for any moles or growths that may look suspicious over your entire body. We will also check for any signs of skin cancer, such as changes in color or texture using a handheld dermatoscope. This exam is especially important if you have a family history of skin cancer.
After the visual inspection, we may recommend that you have a biopsy to determine if a mole or lesion is cancerous. During a biopsy, we will take a sample of the suspicious area and send it to a lab for analysis.
Benefits of Regular Skin Cancer Exams
Regular skin cancer exams are essential for everyone, regardless of age or skin type. The exams can determine any potential problems early on, which can help prevent them from turning into something more serious. Regular skin cancer exams can help you better understand your skin and your risk for skin cancer.
If an abnormality is found, the doctor can take a biopsy to determine if the mole or growth is cancerous. If it is cancerous, then it can be treated before it has a chance to spread. This can help lessen the severity of the cancer and improve the chances of successful treatment. When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99 percent.
By becoming more aware of your skin, you can be more proactive in monitoring it for any changes and alerting your doctor if anything seems unusual.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening at Trillium Creek Dermatology
At Trillium Creek Dermatology, we understand the importance of regular skin cancer screenings. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. Our team of experts is here to help you protect your skin and your health. We have four offices conveniently located in Brunswick, Medina, Wadsworth, and Wooster.
