Worried about that mole? Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. If skin cancer is detected early, it is more easily treatable. Dr. Juan-Carlos Caballero of Warrenton Dermatology & Skin Therapy Center in Warrenton, VA, offers skin cancer screening and diagnostic services to his patients. Read on to find out when you should have your mole checked.
When cancer starts in the skin, it is called skin cancer. There are three major types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The main cause of skin cancer is overexposure to UV radiation. This is produced by the sun, but it can also come from other sources, such as tanning beds. Other factors may also contribute to your risk of skin cancer, such as having a condition that weakens your immune system or being exposed to toxic substances.
If you have a mole that is larger than most, has smudgy or irregular edges, is uneven in color or has some pinkness, you should see a dermatologist to get it checked. Most benign moles are often a single shade of brown. Melanoma may become blue, white or red or have a number of shades of brown. If you notice a change in shape or color, or the mole become painful or starts to bleed, see a dermatologist immediately.
A skin cancer screening is a visual inspection of your skin by a doctor. During this exam, your dermatologist will look for moles and other spots that are different in color from the rest of the skin. Generally, individuals with skin cancer risk factors—family history, skin that burns easily or multiple moles—should see a dermatologist annually. If you’ve had precancerous lesions or nonmelanoma skin cancer, you may need a skin cancer screening every six months.
Ready to take control of your health? You have the power to manage your health. If you need a mole check, call Warrenton Dermatology & Skin Therapy Center at (540) 341-1900 to schedule an appointment in Warrenton, VA. Skin cancer can be serious, expensive and sometimes even deadly. A simple skin examination could save your life from skin cancer!
