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Why Is a Skin Check Important?
Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide, but it is also one of the most preventable and treatable if detected early. SA Regional Skin Cancer performs Skin Checks Mt Barker SA. Regular skin checks can help in:
- Early Detection: The earlier skin cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. Early-stage skin cancers can often be treated effectively with minor surgery or other less invasive treatments.
- Prevention: Regular skin checks can help you stay on top of changes in your skin, leading to early intervention before a spot becomes more serious.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are keeping track of your skin health can provide peace of mind, especially if you are at higher risk for skin cancer.
What does a Skin Check for Skin Cancer involve?
A skin check is a comprehensive examination of your skin conducted by a healthcare professional to detect signs of skin cancer. During the check, the doctor carefully inspects your skin from head to toe, looking for any unusual moles, spots, or growths that could indicate skin cancer. The examination usually includes:
- Visual Inspection: The doctor examines your entire skin surface, including areas that are not typically exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, soles of the feet, and between the toes.
- Dermoscopy: This is a technique where the doctor uses a special magnifying device called a dermatoscope to look at suspicious moles or lesions in greater detail. Digital imaging may be used if needed.
- Biopsy: If the doctor finds any spots that look suspicious, they may take a small sample of the skin (a biopsy) to be analysed in a lab. This helps determine whether the spot is cancerous.
Who Should Have a Skin Check?
Everyone should consider having regular skin checks, but certain groups are at a higher risk and should be more vigilant:
- Fair-Skinned Individuals: People with fair skin, light-coloured eyes, and red or blonde hair are at higher risk for skin cancer, especially if they have a history of sunburns.
- Family History of Skin Cancer: If you have a family history of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, you are at a higher risk and should have regular skin checks.
- Individuals with Many Moles: People with a large number of moles or atypical (unusual-looking) moles should be checked regularly, as these can develop into skin cancer.
- Sun Exposure: If you spend a lot of time outdoors, especially without proper sun protection, your risk of skin cancer increases, making regular skin checks essential. Find out how much sun you need here.
- Older Adults: The risk of skin cancer increases with age, so older adults should be particularly mindful of regular skin checks.
- Previous Skin Cancer Diagnosis: If you have had skin cancer before, you are at a higher risk of developing it again, so regular follow-ups are crucial.
The Cancer Council website has further detailed information.
How Often Should You Have a Skin Check?
The frequency of skin checks depends on your individual risk factors. For most people over 50, an annual skin check is recommended. However, if you have a higher risk, your doctor may recommend more frequent checks. It’s also important to perform self-examinations regularly and report any changes in your skin to your doctor immediately.
Take Charge of Your Skin Health
A skin check is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining your skin health and preventing skin cancer. If you fall into any of the higher-risk categories, or if it’s been a while since your last check, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. Early detection can save your life.
Skin Checks Mt Barker SA
At SA Regional Skin Cancer, we perform detail Skin Checks locally in Mt Barker SA. Book a Skin Check below.