Mole Exams and Skin Cancer Screenings
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Some people are at higher risk of skin cancer than others, but anyone can get it. The most preventable cause of skin cancer is overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds.
What can you do to reduce your risk of skin cancer?
Checking yourself and yearly skin cancer screening with a board-certified dermatologist or a highly trained physician assistant, like our providers, is recommended by every skin cancer prevention organization out there!
What to expect during your full body skin evaluation:
A medical assistant will bring you back to an exam room, where they will take down your medical history, and any family history. You will then change into a gown. The doctor will check the full body, including toenails, nails and scalp. Please take any polish off nails prior to coming in so the doctor can examine.
Make your appointment for your mole check today!
Easy options to stay protected:
- Stay in the shade, especially during midday hours.
- Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
- Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade your face, head, ears, and neck.
- Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block both UVA and UVB rays.
- Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher, and both UVA and UVB (broad spectrum) protection.
- Avoid indoor tanning.
Melanoma affects one in 67 Caucasians, and is the deadliest form of skin cancer, with one person dying from it almost every hour.
