Posted by: Skin And Cancer Institute in Skin Cancer
These summer months have been having increased heat, intensity and longer heat waves. If you are someone who loves being out in the sun, make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF. It is important to reduce sun exposure where possible to limit your risk for skin cancer and other dangerous skin growths.
It would be beneficial to have an annual examination by a board-certified dermatologist and if you are someone who is always outside, laying out in the sun, then a skin check will be even more critical. In addition to being seen by a licensed professional, between your doctors visits, you should check your skin. You can do so by inspecting your body and face for any new growths, skin patches that have changed in shape or color or texture.
Look out for moles that have changed or new ones that have formed. Spots or sores that bleed or itch are especially worrisome. If your dermatologist screens your mole and finds it to be worrisome or have warning signs of evolving, a biopsy will be taken. We perform shave biopsy or punch biopsy, depending on the type of mole being analyzed for cancer cells. Also, we offer various removal methods for unwanted moles such as surgical excision, cryosurgery and electrodessication and curettage.
If you notice any of those changes to your skin or new growths, contact Skin and Cancer Institute immediately to be seen by a dermatologic surgeon. After a thorough examination and evaluation, a diagnosis will be made and recommendations will be given to you in terms of preventing skin cancer as well as a treatment plan if there is a positive diagnosis for a tumor or pre-cancerous skin lesion.
Due to the various forms of skin growths and the consideration that some may be non-deadly but can evolve into something quite dangerous should re-enforce the notion that there is no substitute for being seen by a professional. When it comes to the development of skin cancer, time is of the essence as the tumor can spread. Therefore, timely detection, diagnosis and treatment is critical. Contact our office to schedule your consultation or your regular skin examination to protect against skin cancer.