Did you know one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime? The good news is it’s highly treatable when detected early. Although it’s important to have annual skin cancer exams conducted by a healthcare professional, we also suggest performing monthly self-exams at home. Here are a few tips:
Choose a Well-Lit Space: Be sure to find a room with good lighting and a full-length mirror.
Check Your Entire Body: Start from the top and work your way down, making sure to check hard-to-see areas like your scalp, your back and between toes and fingers. Use a hand-held mirror, if necessary.
Document Any Changes: Keep a record of any suspicious spots or take photos.
Know the Signs: Some of the more common ways skin cancers can appear include:
- A new, expanding or changing growth, spot or bump on the skin
- A sore that bleeds and/or doesn’t heal after several weeks
- A rough or scaly red patch, which might crust or bleed
- A wart-like growth
- A mole (or other spot on the skin) that’s new or changing in size, shape or color
- A mole with an odd shape, irregular borders or areas of different colors
Talk to a Healthcare Professional: If you notice any suspicious changes, always schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider.