Skin Cancer Screenings

A skin cancer screening is a medical examination performed by a dermatologist to detect signs of cancer or precancerous changes. During the exam, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Freedman carefully inspects the skin from head to toe, looking for unusual moles, spots, or lesions, using a dermatoscope. Dr. Freedman is an expert in dermoscopy, a type of surface microscope that allows specially trained dermatologists to enhance visualization and detection during exams.

He strongly believes in using his training and technology to provide the best possible skin examination for every patient. The screening is typically painless and non-invasive. If a suspicious area is identified, the dermatologist may recommend a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of tissue for analysis under a microscope. This allows for an accurate diagnosis and determines whether treatment is necessary.

The importance of skin cancer screenings lies in early detection. The earlier skin cancer is found, the easier it is to treat and the better the outcomes. For example, melanoma—the most aggressive form of skin cancer—has a high survival rate when detected in its earliest stages but becomes far more dangerous once it spreads.

Screenings are also crucial because skin cancer does not always cause symptoms in its early stages. A suspicious mole or patch of skin may not hurt, itch, or bleed. Many people assume that if something on the skin isn’t bothering them, it isn’t serious. Unfortunately, that isn’t always true. Dermatologists are trained to recognize subtle changes that most people would overlook.

While everyone can benefit from paying attention to their skin, certain groups of people should be especially proactive about regular screenings.

• Individuals with a history of skin cancer: Anyone who has been diagnosed with skin cancer in the past has a higher risk of developing it again. Regular screenings ensure that new growths are detected quickly.
• Those with a family history of skin cancer: Genetics can play a role in risk. If close relatives have had melanoma or other skin cancers, it is wise to schedule routine exams.
• People with fair skin, light eyes, or blond or red hair: These individuals tend to burn more easily and have a higher lifetime risk of developing skin cancer.
• Anyone with a high number of moles or atypical moles: Atypical moles can resemble melanoma and may increase the risk of developing it. Regularly monitoring them helps detect dangerous changes.
• People with a history of frequent sunburns or tanning bed use: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds is the leading cause of skin cancer. Past sunburns or tanning increase lifetime risk.
• Adults over age 50: The risk of skin cancer increases with age, making screenings increasingly important as people grow older.

Even individuals without known risk factors can develop skin cancer. Because of this, Dr. Freedman recommends that all adults have a baseline skin exam, especially if they have never had one.

When you schedule a skin cancer screening, the process is straightforward. Dr. Freedman will begin by asking about your personal and family history of skin cancer, your history of sun exposure, and any spots on your skin that concern you. Next, he will perform a full-body exam, including the scalp, face, trunk, arms, legs, hands, feet, and even areas not typically exposed to the sun. The exam usually takes only 10 to 20 minutes.

If a mole or spot is found to be suspicious, he may photograph it to track changes over time or recommend a biopsy. In most cases, if skin cancer is diagnosed, treatment can be performed in the office with excellent outcomes.

A skin cancer screening is not automatically considered an “annual screening” for everyone, the way an annual physical or mammogram might be. How often you should have a professional skin exam depends on your personal risk factors.

In addition to professional exams, everyone should perform monthly self-skin checks at home. These help you become familiar with your moles and spots so you can detect changes early and seek medical evaluation if something looks suspicious.