Although cancer can exist in many forms, skin cancer is a common type of cancer. Skin cancer is unique from other forms of the disease, and it can manifest itself on the skin surface. Skin cancer is known to lead to the development of cancer cells in skin tissues. As such, the importance of skin cancer screenings cannot be overstated.
What is a Skin Cancer Screening?
A skin cancer screening is a procedure that involves the visual examination of a person’s skin to determine if there are signs of malignant (cancer) cells. A professional can do a skin cancer screening or you can do it yourself at home. During the procedure, the testing should focus on birthmarks, moles, and other marks that could be present on the body that are unique in terms of size, color, shape, or texture as they can be a sign of skin cancer. The main aim for any skin cancer screening is to detect the disease in its earliest forms to ensure it is treated. The most common type of skin screening is a biopsy, although there are other procedures used to examine for other forms of the disease.
The Importance of Skin Cancer Screenings
There are numerous benefits for any individual to come in for a skin cancer screening. Some of the benefits of skin cancer screenings are:
- It helps you to identify early signs of cancer. Cancer is becoming a common disease in the United States, and it is estimated that one in every five Americans is diagnosed with skin cancer within their lifetime.
- Skin cancer screenings are necessary in ensuring that the disease can be treated at its early stages. You can treat skin cancer if it can be detected at an early stage, hence the need for every person to undergo skin cancer examinations. If you are diagnosed with the disease in its earliest stage, there is a higher chance of ensuring that it can be managed and cured.
- If you notice moles that you suspect are cancerous during a private screening exercise, then undergoing a skin cancer examination is necessary for addressing your fears. The doctor will determine if you have contracted the disease so that you can begin treatment and if you are healthy so that you can have piece of mind.
- It helps to create awareness about cancer and steps that can be taken to prevent new infections. Skin cancer screenings have played a role in creating awareness among the general public of the cancer menace and the need for continuous testing.
Do you want to get screened for skin cancer? If so, you can trust our professionals at Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta, located in Alpharetta. Contact us today to book an appointment and get started.