This is a HealthLine Online content page created by HealthwiseOpens in new window . HealthLine Online helps you make better decisions about your health.

Skin Cancer Screening

Overview

Skin cancer, Opens dialog may be treated more successfully if it is caught early.

  • Experts haven't recommended for or against routine skin cancer screening for adults at normal risk.footnote 1 This means there isn't enough evidence from studies to show that all adults with a normal risk for skin cancer would benefit from having regular screening.
  • But your doctor may suggest a regularly scheduled skin exam if your risk is higher than average because you have:
    • Abnormal moles called atypical moles (dysplastic nevi). These moles are not cancerous, but their presence could be a sign of an inherited tendency to develop melanoma.
    • Increased occupational or recreational exposure to ultraviolet (UV, Opens dialog) radiation.
    • Familial atypical multiple mole and melanoma (FAMMM) syndrome. This is an inherited tendency to develop melanoma. People that have it may need to check their skin every month and be checked by a doctor several times a year.

Skin self-exam

Skin cancer, including melanoma, is curable if spotted early. A careful skin exam may identify suspicious growths that may be cancer or growths that may develop into skin cancer (precancers).

  • Learn the ABCDEs, Opens dialog of early detection.

    These are the changes in a mole or skin growth that are warning signs of melanoma.

  • Examine your skin, Opens dialog regularly.

    Get to know your moles and birthmarks. And look for any abnormal skin growth and any change in the colour, shape, size, or appearance of a skin growth.

  • Check for any area of skin that does not heal after an injury.
  • Ask your doctor to check your skin during health exams.

    Most experts recommend having your skin examined regularly.

  • Bring any suspicious skin growths or changes in a mole to the attention of your doctor.

Related Videos

Information about Skin Cancer Screening

Current as of: October 25, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC StaffOpens in new window

Clinical Review BoardOpens in new window
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of UseOpens in new window . Learn how we develop our contentOpens in new window .

Contact Information

Contact the SHA

Contact us with General Inquiries or Feedback About Your Care, the SHA is here to help.

Help Information

Emergency

If you believe you have an emergency, dial 911.

911

Questions?

If you have questions about your health, dial 811 on your phone or visit HealthLine Online.