Early Detection of Skin Cancer Saves Lives

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At least one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Annual screenings help detect skin cancer in its early stages.

“Skin cancer survival rates increase dramatically when disease is caught early,” says Shannon Wiedersum, DO, dermatologist with Doylestown Health. “Routine skin cancer screenings can identify pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions in their early stages and will help you learn to better examine your own skin.”

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when you have an abnormal growth of skin cells. It is often caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. Skin cancer can also develop in areas of skin that haven’t been exposed to UV rays.

There are many types of skin cancer, but the three main types are:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Melanoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma

The American Cancer Society lists basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma as the most common forms of skin cancer. Melanoma is less common and more likely to spread if left untreated.

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

Anyone can get skin cancer, but Dr. Wiedersum says there are certain risk factors that may increase your risk. Some risk factors for skin cancer include:

• Lighter skin tone
• Skin that burns, freckles, or is painful in the sun
• Blue or green eyes
• Blonde or red hair
• Certain types of moles
• Family history of skin cancer
• Older age
• Personal history of skin cancer

Overexposure to UV rays also increases your risk for developing skin cancer. Dr. Wiedersum says spending too much time in the sun or trying to get that perfect tan can be dangerous.

“A tan is a sign of sun damage and attempts to tan are not advised whether it is from sunlight or tanning beds. Tanning beds are considered to be carcinogenic (cancer causing) like smoking. Even one time in a tanning bed increases your risk of skin cancer. If you like the look of a tan, I suggest a self-tanning cream,” says Dr. Wiedersum.

Preventing Skin Cancer

The good news is that skin cancer is largely preventable. You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by practicing sun safety. Dr. Wiedersum recommends a few ways you can protect your skin:

• Stay in the shade when the sun is at its strongest (10 am – 4 pm)
• Wear light-colored clothing that protects your arms and legs
• Protect your face and neck with a wide-brimmed hat
• Wear sunglasses that block both UV and UVB rays
• Don’t forget sunscreen (use a broad spectrum with SPF 15 or higher)
• Look for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide

It’s also important to remember that you can still be exposed to UV rays on cloudy or cool days. If the UV index is 3 or higher in your area, practicing sun safety is important.

When to Get Screened for Skin Cancer

Skin cancer screenings are essential. They can detect skin cancer before you notice any physical changes or experience any symptoms.

“The Skin Cancer Foundation suggests an annual skin exam for adults since most skin cancer is curable if caught early. If there is a family history of melanoma, children should begin screening around puberty or age 10. If there is a concern about a mole or the child has atypical moles, then they should be seen regardless of their age,” says Dr. Wiedersum.

In between screenings or appointments with your dermatologist, Dr. Wiedersum recommends checking your skin for any moles or changes to existing moles. Be sure to look at less visible areas of your skin, including the soles of your feet and back. Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any changes. 

Contributing physician

Shannon Wiedersum, DO, is a dermatologist at Mary B. Toporcer, MD, Dermatology, and partners with Doylestown Health.

Find a provider

If you are looking for a primary care provider or dermatologist, you can search for one who is right for you in our Find a Provider directory. Doylestown Health Cancer Institute also offers advanced screening, diagnostics, treatment, and professional supportive services for those affected by cancer. To learn more about cancer services offered at Doylestown Health Cancer Institute or to make an appointment, visit DoylestownHealth.org/service-lines/cancer.