Early detection of skin cancer leads to effective skin treatment with your Jupiter dermatologist

People of all ages and races can be affected by skin cancer. More than 3.5 million people are diagnosed with this condition each year, making it the most common cancer diagnosis. The American Cancer Society states that there are more new occurrences of skin cancer each year than colon, lung, prostate, and breast cancers combined.

Skin cancer develops as one of three types, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma. Although we know melanoma to be the most serious form of skin cancer, posing serious concern for health and life, all skin cancers are serious, and need to be treated effectively to prevent cosmetic and health problems.

Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are most often found on exposed areas of the skin. This is a clue to the importance of sun protection! Conversely, melanoma lesions may develop anywhere, even on areas that do not receive regular sun exposure. Men tend to develop melanoma on the head, neck, and torso, whereas women most commonly find these cancerous lesions on their lower legs. Melanoma lesions may develop in a mole that has changed over time, forming irregular borders or a rough texture. However, this skin cancer can also develop away from any existing mole.

To obtain the most effective skin treatment for cancerous lesions, your Jupiter dermatologist recommends that you check your skin on a monthly basis, and visit our office yearly for a professional, thorough skin evaluation. At home, you will want to look for:

• Asymmetry in a spot on the skin is cause for professional examination. Moles and other pigmented spots should be evenly shaped on all sides, not be larger on one side and smaller on the other.
• Borders of moles should be clear and precise. Unevenness in borders should be further investigated.
• Colors of moles may vary from one to another, and may be black, brown, flesh-toned, or even red. However, any single mole should be one color only.
• Diameter of a mole is an indicator of skin cancer, with spots larger than a pencil eraser more concerning.
• Changes within moles can be a sign of cancerous cells. If a mole changes color, texture, shape, or size, we encourage you to make an appointment with your skilled dermatologist.

Skin cancer is very prevalent in our society. Especially in a location as beautiful as Florida, we love to spend time outdoors. Protecting the skin is as easy as wearing sunscreen on a daily basis, and visiting your dermatologist regularly for professional skin checks. A Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic and Laser Surgery has innovative testing and treatment options for skin cancer.

Contact us for your appointment in our Jupiter practice today.

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