Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer people are diagnosed with. Although it is a very serious health concern, skin cancer is treatable if it is caught early enough. That is why it is important to make skin cancer screenings a top priority.
Here are a few signs that you should schedule a skin cancer screening.
Your Family Members Have Had Skin Cancer
Skin cancer can be hereditary. If one or more of your family members have been diagnosed with skin cancer in the past, you have a higher chance of developing the condition. Therefore, if your parents or other relatives had battled skin cancer, it is wise to schedule a skin cancer screening soon.
You Have Fair Skin And Light Hair and Eyes
People with certain characteristics are more likely to develop skin cancer than others. If you, for example, have very that skin that burns and freckles easily, you have an increased risk of getting diagnosed with skin cancer. Likewise, if you have light hair and light eyes, you have a higher risk of developing skin cancer. If you have any of these characteristics, get a skin cancer screening soon.
You Have Many Moles on Your Body
The more moles you have on your body, the more likely some of them will be abnormal. If you have dozens of moles on your body, it is a good idea to get checked for skin cancer on a regular basis.
Your Moles Have Changed
Normal moles typically have the same size, color, and shape. Abnormal moles, on the other hand, are asymmetric, have grown in size, or have multiple colors. If any of your moles have changed, schedule a skin cancer screening with a dermatologist right away.
You Have a History of Sunburns
One of the best ways to reduce the risk of skin cancer is to avoid getting sunburns. However, if you have had many sunburns in the past, you have a higher risk of getting diagnosed with skin cancer in the future. As such, it's in your best interest to set up a skin cancer screening as soon as possible.
If you are showing any of these signs, it is a wise move to schedule a skin cancer screening. The screening usually takes only 30 minutes and can potentially save your life. If your doctor finds a suspicious mole, he or she may recommend removing it.
