Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer that affects people of all ages. While skin cancer affects older individuals more, it can affect young adults and anyone in between. It doesn’t matter what color your skin is or what your ethnic background is. You could become a victim of skin cancer.
If you are fair-skinned and you have often been a victim of sunburns, your risk of skin cancer increases. Skin cancer usually appears in areas of the body that have been exposed to the sun, but it can develop in other areas as well. If you suspect that you have skin cancer, it is vital that you get it diagnosed as soon as possible. The importance of early skin cancer detection cannot be overstated.
Why is Skin Cancer Detection So Important?
If you have skin cancer, you want it detected by a doctor at the earliest possible moment. Otherwise, you could find yourself facing serious concerns about your health. There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell skin cancer, squamous cell skin cancer and melanoma.
Basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers are considered milder forms of cancer. However, they can still be a cause for concern, leading to damage to affected areas or even disfigurement. Melanoma is the greatest cause for concern. This is the most severe form of skin cancer and it can be deadly if not treated in time.
Time is of the Essence
The sooner skin cancer is detected and diagnosed, the sooner it can be effectively treated. Take care of spots at the earliest possible stage for the simplest treatment options. In some cases, a radioactive cream is enough, or skin cancer spots can be removed using other technology.
The more advanced skin cancer is, the more aggressive the treatment. Surgical removal may be the only option, especially when skin cancer has gone past the surface of the skin to penetrate into deeper tissues. If skin cancer has affected your life, don’t ignore it. Get help right away.
Pay Attention to Your Body
The best thing that you can do is to be aware of any changes in the skin on your body. Ask a loved one to check your back and any other area you can’t see. If you notice anything suspicious, be proactive and get it checked. You also need to be vigilant about using sunscreen to protect your skin. If you notice changes, go see our doctor.
Talk to Our Doctor About Skin Cancer Detection
If you are worried about any spots on your body, make an appointment to have them evaluated by our medical professional at Pinnacle Dermatology in Birmingham. Our expert will examine your skin and make recommendations, which may include a biopsy for confirmation concerning skin cancer.
If you know you have skin cancer, you can discover the best way to treat it and take a step toward a healthier you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.