A board certified dermatologist leads the Division of Dermatology at LoCicero Health and provides specialist care in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions.
Is getting a skin cancer screening important?
Yes! The most common types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), can be cured if caught early and properly treated. When melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is detected before it spreads, it also has a high cure rate. Self-examinations at home are highly encouraged. If something suspicious is found, you should immediately make an appointment to see a dermatologist for a follow-up examination.
Who gets skin cancer?
One in five Americans will get skin cancer in their lifetime. By 2015, it is estimated that 1 in 50 Americans will develop melanoma in their lifetime. One American dies of melanoma every hour.
You are at a higher risk of getting Melanoma if you have:
- Light skin (though people with skin of color can get melanoma too).
- A history of blistering sun burn or a lot of unprotected sun exposure.
- More than 50 moles.
- A first degree relative with melanoma (parent, sibling or child).
- If you’ve had melanoma in the past.
Source: AAD.ORG