Each year, many people choose to visit a doctor for their routine check-up, their dentist to get their teeth checked, and perhaps an optician to get their eyes checked. But what about a skin check by a specially trained skin cancer doctor?
Doctors are professionals specially trained to detect skin cancer. The earlier these cancers are detected, the higher the chance they are treatable. So having skin cancer screenings should be an important part of your healthcare routine. Keep reading this article to discover what you should expect during a skin cancer screening, but before we get into that, let’s first establish the basis of skin cancer screening.
Key Takeaways
- A skin cancer screening is a full head-to-toe skin examination performed by a clinician to detect suspicious moles or lesions early.
- During the appointment, you may be asked to remove clothing while the clinician inspects all skin areas, including the scalp and between the toes.
- The clinician will look for irregular spots and may use a dermatoscope to closely examine any lesions of concern.
- A screening typically takes around 10–20 minutes, depending on the number of moles and risk factors.
- If a lesion appears suspicious, the clinician may recommend a biopsy or further testing to determine if it is cancerous.
What is skin cancer screening?
A skin cancer screening is a visual exam of the skin that is performed at a skin cancer clinic, from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet to detect cancer early. This screening can be done either by yourself or a health care provider. The screening checks the skin for moles, birthmarks, or other marks unusual in colour, size, shape, or texture. Such unusual marks could be signs of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in the United States. The most common types of dreaded diseases are basal cell and squamous cell cancers. When basal and squamous are combined, they are known as keratinocytes. These cancers hardly spread to other body parts and are usually curable with treatment. A third and most dangerous type of skin cancer is called melanoma. It is less common than the other two but more harmful because it’s more likely to spread. Melanoma causes the most skin cancer deaths.
What is skin cancer screening used for?
Usually, skin cancer screening is used to detect cancerous skin. It is not used to determine cancer. If your skin is suspected of having cancer after a screening, a biopsy test will be needed to find out whether you have cancer.
What are the risk factors for skin cancer?
Risk factors for skin cancer include having:
- Light skin tone
- Blond or red hair
- Light-coloured eyes, mostly blue or green
- Skin that freckles or burns easily
- Having a history of sunburns
- Family history of skin cancer
- Having lots of moles
If you have any of these risk factors, talk to your health provider about them and consider seeing a doctor
What happens during a skin cancer screening?
Skin cancer screenings may be done by yourself, your primary care provider, or a doctor.
If you are getting screened by a doctor or other health care provider, it may include the following steps:
You’ll be asked to remove all your clothing. But If you are uncomfortable being undressed in front of your provider, you can wear a gown. Your provider will give you a full head-to-toe exam, including your scalp, behind your ears, fingers, toes, buttocks, and genitals.
This exam might seem awkward, but it’s important to get checked, as skin cancer can occur anywhere on your skin. Your skin doctor will also check for lesions that look different from others, both in size, colours, and ones that have irregular boarders.
Your provider might use a dermatoscope to look at the individual lesion. Usually, this screening should take about 10-15 minutes. If your skin is suspected of having cancer after the screening, your doctor will recommend you go for a biopsy test.
FAQs
What happens during a skin cancer screening?
A skin cancer screening involves a full examination of your skin by a trained professional. You may be asked to change into a gown so all areas can be checked properly. The clinician will carefully assess your skin for any unusual moles, spots, or changes, often using a handheld device to get a closer view. The process is non-invasive and typically straightforward. If any areas require further attention, the clinician will explain the next steps and what may be involved.
How long does a skin cancer screening take?
A skin cancer screening is usually quick and efficient, often taking around 15 to 30 minutes. The exact duration can vary depending on the number of spots being assessed and whether any areas need closer examination. Despite being relatively short, the screening is thorough and designed to check the entire surface of your skin. If further investigation is required, additional time may be needed for discussion or follow-up arrangements.
Do you need to prepare for a skin cancer screening?
Preparation for a skin cancer screening is simple but can help ensure a more accurate assessment. It is recommended to attend with clean skin, free from makeup, moisturisers, or nail polish, so the clinician can clearly examine all areas. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can make the process easier, especially if you need to change. Taking note of any spots or changes you have noticed beforehand can also help guide the examination.
Is a skin cancer screening painful?
A standard skin cancer screening is not painful. It involves a visual inspection of the skin and may include the use of a handheld device to examine spots more closely. There are no invasive procedures during the initial screening. If a suspicious area is identified and requires further testing, such as a biopsy, this will be discussed separately. For most people, the screening itself is quick, comfortable, and does not cause discomfort.
What happens if something unusual is found during the screening?
If a clinician identifies a spot that appears unusual, they will explain their findings and recommend the next steps. This may involve monitoring the area, taking a closer look with specialised equipment, or arranging further testing such as a biopsy. The aim is to assess the area more thoroughly to determine whether it requires treatment. Early identification allows for more effective management, so any follow-up is focused on ensuring the best possible outcome.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is a dangerous disease, but if detected earlier, it might not be as harmful as you imagine. Waste no time contacting your doctor if you notice any unusual change in your skin; you might just be saving your life by doing so.
