Why You Should Get a Skin Cancer Check: The Importance of Early Detection
One in five persons will get the most prevalent cancer in the world by the age of 70. The good news is that with early diagnosis and treatment, the majority of cases are treatable. However, we must detect skin cancer early to prevent it.
Despite the fact that skin cancer is common, the risk factors are well established. Every patient must take the required safety measures to lower their risk of skin cancer. Your long-term health depends on knowing the risk factors and creating a preventative strategy that includes things like using sunscreen, staying away from tanning salons, and finding shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Importance of Early Detection
Since it can greatly improve the likelihood of a successful course of therapy and lessen the severity of treatments, early identification of skin cancer is essential. Skin cancer is frequently more amenable to less severe therapies when detected early, which helps lessen the psychological and physical toll it takes on sufferers. Survival chances are higher with early discovery, particularly for melanoma, which can be quite aggressive. Melanoma has a five-year survival rate of 99% when detected early. However, as it spreads to other organs, the survival rate drastically decreases.
Misconceptions about Skin Cancer
A common misconception is that those with pale skin or those who spend a lot of time in the sun are the only ones who get skin cancer. In actuality, anyone may get skin cancer, regardless of lifestyle or skin type. Additionally, it’s a common misperception that skin cancer exclusively affects the elderly. However, research indicates that increased UV exposure from several sources is leading to an increase in skin cancer diagnoses among younger persons. Frequent screenings dispel these myths by providing a thorough analysis of every skin type, enabling tailored risk assessments and advice.
Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer
Changes in the size, shape, colour, or texture of moles or skin lesions are some frequent indications and symptoms of skin cancer, however, it can take many other forms. If you’re noticing changes and are in the Dandenong area, consider a skin cancer check Dandenong area to get a professional assessment. Skin growths that are new or out of the ordinary are further warning indicators. Additionally, it could display areas that itch, bleed, or crust over, as well as sores that do not heal. Any changes in the skin should be noted, and any questionable discoveries should be reported to a dermatologist for assessment.
Check the following risk factors that may point to an increased risk of skin cancer in addition to a genetic predisposition:
- Unprotected exposure to the sun.
- You are prone to sunburn
- A pale complexion
- Numerous moles and freckles
- Individuals with blond or red hair
- Those with green or blue eyes
- You’ve had tanning beds before
- You reside in a sunny environment or at a higher elevation
Remember, life is saved by early detection. Knowing what to look for on your own skin and body might help you catch cancer early when it’s most treatable before it becomes harmful, deformity-causing, or fatal.
