All about skin cancer screening

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. In this skin disease, cells grow abnormally in the skin. Knowing the basic signs of skin cancer and who should be screened can help you stay well.  There are 3 main types of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. 

Who should be screened?

Anyone can get skin cancer. However, some people are more at risk than others. People with the following traits may be more likely to develop skin cancer: 

• Light skin color
• Skin that burns easily in the sun
• Blue or green eyes
• Blonde or red hair
• Certain types of, or many, moles
• A history of blistering sunburns or tanning (especially tanning beds)
• A family history of skin cancer (especially melanoma)
• A personal history of skin cancer
• Older age
• Chronic sun damage 

If any of these apply to you, your primary care provider will refer you to an in-person dermatologist for a skin cancer screening. 

What is a skin cancer screening?

In a skin cancer screening, the dermatology provider will closely examine your skin from head to toe for any abnormal changes. If a skin lesion looks suspicious, the provider may remove some of the tissue (biopsy) and send it to a lab to check for cancer cells under a microscope. For many at risk people, a skin cancer screening is yearly with a dermatologist. If you have a history of skin cancer or other risk factors, you may be screened more often. 

Who should be concerned with skin cancer?

Everyone should be on the lookout for skin cancer. Even though some people are at higher risk , it is possible for anyone to get skin cancer. 

Any new, changing, non-healing lesion, or any “ugly duckling” (a lesion that does not look like any of your other moles/spots) should be discussed with your PCP/dermatologist. Skin cancer often has no pain or symptoms. When caught early, skin cancer is highly curable. 

Be aware of the ABCDEs of melanoma

You’ll want to let your primary care provider know if any of the following applies to a mark or mole on your skin.

Asymmetrical: Does it have an uneven shape / color from one side to the other?

Border: Is the outside irregular or jagged or changing?

Color: Is the shade uneven or color changing? Are there different shades of brown, tan, or black—or even red, white or blue?

Diameter: Is it larger than a pea/pencil eraser?

Evolving: Has it changed in size, shape, or color in the past few weeks or months?

Tell your primary care if you become aware of any of the above changes in your skin. They may refer you to an in-person dermatologist for a thorough screening exam. Set up an appointment with your primary care provider to learn more about skin cancer and your risk.