The Importance of Regular Skin Cancer Screenings: A Comprehensive Guide

The Importance of Regular Skin Cancer Screenings: A Comprehensive Guide to Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and anyone who spends a lot of time in the sun is at risk. Regular skin cancer screenings from your dermatologist can help detect skin cancer early when it is more easily treatable. Dr. John Randall and the provider team at Randall Dermatology and Medspa offer a wide range of medical and cosmetic dermatology services, including skin cancer screenings. He has several convenient office locations in West Lafayette, Kokomo, Frankfort, Rensselaer, Terre Haute, Westfield, Monticello, Winamac, Williamsport, and Zionsville, IN.

What You Need To Know About Skin Cancer Screenings

You are at higher risk of developing skin cancer if you have:

• Fair skin and freckles
• A tendency to sunburn easily and severely
• A history of skin cancer
• A family history of skin cancer
• A tendency to spend long periods out in the sun

You should schedule a skin cancer screening at least once each year with your dermatologist, and more often if you are at high risk of developing skin cancer. During a skin cancer screening, your dermatologist will perform a comprehensive examination of your skin and look for:

• Large moles, with a diameter of 6 millimeters or greater
• Irregular moles with ragged, uneven borders
• Moles that have changed in size, shape, or color
• Unevenly shaped moles
• Red, itchy, bleeding, or oozing moles
• Recurrent moles, which have grown back after previous removal

If your dermatologist notices any abnormal moles or areas of skin, your dermatologist may take a tissue sample or remove the mole and send it off for a biopsy.

Don’t forget to protect your skin when you go outside. Remember to:

• Wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30 daily, or at least SPF 50 if you are outside for a long period
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and other protective clothing
• Try to stay out of direct sunlight between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when ultraviolet rays are most harmful

Want To Know More?

To find out more about the importance of regular skin cancer screenings and how they can prevent skin cancer, call Dr. John Randall at Randall Dermatology and Medspa in West Lafayette and Kokomo, IN. Call (765) 463-6722 to reach the office in West Lafayette and (765) 452-8602 for Kokomo. Call today.