Skin Checks & Cancer Screening

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, with basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma being the main types. Early detection through regular skin checks is critical, as it can significantly improve outcomes and reduce morbidity associated with skin cancers. Skin checks allow for the identification of suspicious moles or lesions early, which can lead to timely intervention before the cancer progresses or metastasizes, especially in the case of melanoma【Garbe et al., 2016】.

• Performing regular self-skin examinations is a key preventative measure in the early detection of skin cancers. Individuals are encouraged to examine their entire body, including hard-to-see areas like the scalp, back, and soles of the feet, and to use mirrors or the help of a partner when needed. The “ABCDE rule” is often used as a guideline to spot potentially cancerous moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, and Evolving in size, shape, or color. These features help identify melanomas, which can be more aggressive and life-threatening if not caught early【American Cancer Society, 2021】.

• Annual skin checks by a dermatologist are recommended, particularly for those at higher risk, such as individuals with a history of sun exposure, tanning bed use, fair skin, a large number of moles, or a personal or family history of skin cancer. Dermatologists use tools like dermoscopy, a specialized magnifying device, to evaluate moles and skin lesions in more detail. Studies have shown that regular screenings can lead to earlier diagnosis, which is associated with higher cure rates and better survival outcomes, particularly for melanoma, where early-stage detection has a 5-year survival rate of over 98%【Watts et al., 2017】.

• The benefits of early skin cancer detection are substantial. For non-melanoma skin cancers like BCC and SCC, early removal usually results in high cure rates with minimal treatment. For melanoma, which is more likely to spread to other parts of the body, early detection is vital for effective treatment. Once melanoma progresses to later stages, it becomes more difficult to treat and has a higher risk of spreading (metastasizing) to other organs, significantly impacting survival rates【Garbe et al., 2016】.

Skin checks and melanoma screening play a vital role in reducing the burden of skin cancer. Awareness and education on self-examination techniques, combined with regular professional screenings, empower individuals to take proactive measures for early detection. This is particularly important for those with risk factors or previous skin cancer diagnoses. Adopting these practices can help reduce mortality associated with melanoma and improve overall skin health outcomes.