Skin cancer is the most common cancer. And, when caught early, it is often a curable form of cancer. The earlier it’s detected, the more likely it is to be successfully treated with less invasive methods.
Early detection is key
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and is often curable. Regular skin cancer screenings are essential for finding skin cancer signs and symptoms early. Screenings help you and your doctor become more familiar with your skin. This allows you to recognize any changes or abnormalities that might indicate a problem. Early detection of skin cancer can make all the difference. Working with AHN means you have our experts creating customized screening schedules based on your risk factors. It’s easy to find a skin cancer screening near you.
It is critical to receive an early, accurate diagnosis. A precise skin cancer diagnosis helps us create an effective treatment plan that will give you the best long-term results. Luckily, AHN has the one of the most state-of-the art technologies on the market that can detect skin cancer earlier.
How early screening helps
Hear how Kristi turned “I have cancer” into “I had cancer” on Episode 41: A busy mom pays attention to her skin of our I Had Cancer podcast.
Early signs of skin cancer
The early signs of skin cancer look different for everyone. How to know if you may have skin cancer or how to recognize skin cancer symptoms starts with you. You know your skin better than anyone. If you see a new mole, sore, or skin spot that looks troubling, talk to your dermatologist or doctor right away about getting screened for skin cancer. Conduct regular skin checks to look for common skin cancer signs.
Common skin cancer signs include:
- A new mole or a change in an existing mole: This includes changes in size, shape, color, or texture.
- A skin sore that doesn’t heal: If you notice a sore that appears and doesn’t seem to heal, it could be a sign of basal cell carcinoma
- A small growth or sore: A new growth or sore — often a raised, pearly growth or skin that looks waxy — may be a sign of skin cancer.
- Painful or itchy skin lesion: Usually more severe than dry skin, experiencing painful or itchy skin that turns into a lesion (meaning the area of concern looks different from the surrounding skin) could be a skin cancer symptom.
- A firm, red nodule: A new growth on your skin that is a firm and red nodule could indicate an early sign of skin cancer.
- Pale or waxy skin spots: If you notice that your skin looks pale or waxy compared to the surrounding area, talk to you your doctor about that change.
- New growths: Any new growth should be monitored and discussed with your doctor at regular preventive checkups or during a skin cancer screening.
Skin cancer risk factors
The most common cause of skin cancer is sun damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, including frequent sunburns, use of tanning lamps, and working outside without proper sun protection. Having fair skin, a family history of skin cancer, and age can also increase your risk.
Other risk factors include:
- Having irregular moles or skin conditions.
- Having more than 100 moles on the body.
- Having a compromised immune system.
- Certain genetic syndromes or skin conditions.
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor diet, as well as partaking in outdoor sports such as golf, tennis, and biking.
- Partaking in indoor tanning and outdoor suntanning.
Skin cancer is a serious disease. If you have changes on your skin, especially moles or lesions, you should consult a doctor or dermatologist.
What happens during your skin cancer screening
Most often conducted by a dermatologist, a skin cancer screening is a thorough examination of your skin to look for any signs or pre-signs of skin cancer. It is a painless and comprehensive overview of all your skin. You may be given a gown to put on, so your dermatologist can easily and quickly assess your body or if the area you are concerned with is in a private place. The dermatologist will explain everything they are doing and answer any questions you may have. A screening with a dermatologist may include:
- Medical history and risk factors discussion: The dermatologist will ask you about your medical history, including any family history of skin cancer. They will also ask about your sun exposure habits, past skin problems, and any medications you are taking.
- Visual examination: The dermatologist will carefully examine your entire skin, including your scalp, ears, face, neck, chest, back, arms, legs, hands, and feet. They will use a magnifying glass and a special light to get a closer look at your skin.
- Palpation: The dermatologist may also feel your skin to check for any lumps or bumps.
- Dermoscopy (optional): In some cases, the dermatologist may use a dermatoscope, a handheld device that magnifies the skin and allows them to see deeper into the layers of the skin.
- Biopsy (if necessary): If the dermatologist finds any suspicious lesions, they may recommend a biopsy. This involves taking a small sample of skin to be examined under a microscope.
The dermatologist will discuss the results of the screening with you and explain any further steps that may be necessary. If any suspicious lesions are found, you will be referred to a specialist for further evaluation and treatment. AHN dermatologists are skilled, compassionate, and experts in their field.
Contact us
Call the AHN Cancer Help Line anytime at (412) 578-HOPE (412) 578-4673 to schedule a cancer-related appointment or to just talk with our nurses about diagnoses, treatments, and side effects.
Book a screening
Screenings let us find cancer early when it’s most treatable. Schedule a skin cancer screening near you during a weekday or during a Saturday screening time.
Second opinions
If you have cancer, you have a team of oncology specialists ready to review your medical records and offer you a second opinion. After completing their review, they’ll talk with you about your goals to determine a course of treatment that’s right for you. To get started, fill out our Second Opinion Request form. A nurse navigator will contact you within the next 24 to 48 hours to discuss next steps and schedule.