The Importance of Regular Skin Cancer Screenings
Divine Dermatology Provides Melanoma Screenings
Protecting yourself against melanoma is critical, so Fort Collins, CO’s Divine Dermatology is here to help. We are the area’s leading skin cancer specialists. Our doctors have a wealth of experience identifying skin cancer symptoms and ways to treat them. Every patient who visits our skin cancer clinic in Fort Collins receives compassion and comfort because we know signs of skin cancer can be scary. Rest assured, we will explain the screening process and provide all the support you need whether your symptoms are false alarms or require treatment. Read further to better understand skin cancer screenings and their importance.
An Overview of Screening for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in the United States. Therefore, regular melanoma screenings are crucial to maintaining your overall health. Our dermatologists have performed countless skin cancer screenings in Fort Collins, CO, and we hope yours is next. The process involves a thorough examination of your skin at our state-of-the-art clinic. We will look for any unusual growths or changes in skin color that could indicate cancer. All of our screenings are quick and painless. We may use a dermatoscope for a close look at any abnormalities but there are no blood tests or invasive procedures.
The Importance of Routine Screenings for Skin Cancer
Routine melanoma screenings are important because early detection is our goal. Identifying skin cancer early significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. It can also make the difference between simple procedures or an intensive approach to recovery. Furthermore, regular skin cancer screenings make our job easier. We can monitor changes in your skin over time. Many are natural, but we will quickly recognize any areas of concern if we know your history. Finally, skin cancer screenings are educational. Not only will we check you for any symptoms, but we will offer advice on ways to help you stay safe from harmful UV rays and other skin cancer risks.
Types of Skin Cancer
Divine Dermatology has the expertise to recognize all types of skin cancer. We can also teach you about them during your melanoma screening. Such an understanding will help you recognize symptoms so that you can schedule an appointment with us immediately if any arise. The most common forms of skin cancer include:
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma – This type of skin cancer usually appears as a red, scaly patch on one’s skin. If you see a patch that won’t heal, let us know right away. It is often caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation, so people who spend a lot of time outside are often at higher risk. We can treat SCC by surgically removing the affected area or performing radiation therapy.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma – If you find a small, shiny bump on your skin, it could be BCC. Its bumps are often pearl-like and relatively flat. They commonly appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face and neck. Topical treatment may help, but we typically remove basal cell carcinoma surgically.
- Malignant Melanoma – This is the most dangerous skin cancer type because it can spread to other parts of the body. Intense UV exposure causes malignant melanoma, which usually presents as a new mole or changes in an existing mole. If caught early, we can surgically remove the malignant cells. Otherwise, we may need to use chemotherapy or immunotherapy for treatment.
How Frequently Should You Have a Skin Cancer Screening
We recommend skin cancer screenings at least once per year. However, high-risk patients should visit us more frequently. If you have a family history of skin cancer, regularly use tanning beds, are fair-skinned, or have many moles, we may tailor a skin cancer screening schedule for you. Of course, if you notice any changes in your skin or worrying symptoms, schedule a consultation with us as soon as possible.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening at Divine Dermatology
Early melanoma detection gives you the best chance of successfully treating skin cancer. So, please do not ignore any symptoms or neglect regular skin cancer screenings. Divine Dermatology is proud to serve the Fort Collins community and help keep our patients skin cancer-free. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.