Skin cancer is a serious disease that affects millions of people every year. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Fortunately, with early detection and treatment, it can be successfully eliminated. This is why it is essential to have regular check-ups at a skin cancer clinic in Claremont.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Unlike other types of cancers that are caused by genetic mutations, skin cancer is usually the result of prolonged sun exposure throughout a lifetime. The ultraviolet UV radiation from the sun is a carcinogen that can cause skin cells to mutate and grow uncontrollably.

The most common types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, with around 4 million cases diagnosed each year in the United States. It usually appears as a small, shiny bump or a pink patch of skin. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It often appears as a scaly, red patch or as a wart-like growth. Melanoma is the least common type of skin cancer, but it is the most dangerous and deadly.

Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer

It is essential to pay close attention to any changes in your skin’s appearance and to consult a dermatologist if necessary. Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of skin cancer:

• A new mole, growth, or bump on the skin
• A mole that changes in size or color
• A sore that does not heal
• A spot or growth that itches or bleeds
• A patch of skin that becomes rough, scaly, or starts to crust

Prevention and Early Detection of Skin Cancer

Protecting yourself from UV radiation is crucial to prevent skin cancer from developing. Avoiding sun exposure during peak hours 10 am to 4 pm, wearing protective clothing and hats, and applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can all help decrease the risk of developing skin cancer.

Early detection is also vital in treating skin cancer effectively. A skin cancer clinic in Claremont offers regular skin checks that can identify any changes in your skin’s appearance that may indicate the presence of cancer. A dermatologist will use a dermatoscope, a specialized tool that allows them to see beneath the skin’s surface, to examine any suspicious moles or skin lesions. If necessary, a biopsy may be taken to test for the presence of cancer.

Conclusion

Skin cancer clinic Claremont provides regular skin checks to identify any changes in your skin’s appearance that may indicate the presence of cancer. A dermatologist uses a dermatoscope to examine suspicious moles or skin lesions and may perform a biopsy if needed. Early detection is key to treating skin cancer effectively and increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Skin cancer can be prevented, and if caught early, it can be successfully treated. Protecting your skin from UV radiation and consulting a dermatologist for regular skin checks are essential in preventing skin cancer and identifying any signs of its presence early. If you notice any changes in your skin’s appearance, including the development or growth of moles, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist right away. Don’t wait until it’s too late – visit a skin cancer clinic in Claremont to take care of your skin’s health.