The Importance of Regular Skin Cancer Screenings and Exams in Phoenix
You’re living in Phoenix and you’re worried about skin cancer. You know Arizona has some of the highest rates of skin cancer in the country. It’s important to protect yourself with sunscreen and get regular skin checks, but where do you even start? This article has the info you need. We’ll go over why skin cancer is such a big deal here, what to look for, and where Phoenix skin cancer exams can be found so you can be prepared. We’ll even give tips for making exams easy and affordable. You’ll learn how to catch skin cancer early and lower your risk. Getting checked is easier than you’d think, so keep reading and safeguard your skin health in the Valley of the Sun.
What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Exam
Phoenix’s hot climate means lots of sun, which also means higher risks of skin damage and skin cancer. The good news is that with regular full-body skin exams, skin cancer is highly preventable and treatable when caught early.
Check Yourself Regularly
It’s important to perform self-exams of your skin at least once a month. Look for any new or changing moles, lesions, or spots. Take photos of your skin each month so you can compare and detect any suspicious changes. See a dermatologist right away if you notice anything concerning.
See a Dermatologist Annually
In Phoenix, it’s recommended that you get a professional full-body skin exam once each year with a board-certified dermatologist. They can check places that are hard for you to see yourself. A dermatologist has the proper training and equipment to detect skin cancers like melanoma even when very small.
Early Detection is Key
When detected early, most forms of skin cancer are highly treatable. However, if left undetected, melanoma can spread to other organs and become life-threatening. Don’t put off your annual skin cancer screenings and be vigilant about self-exams. Your life could depend on it.
Keeping up with regular self-exams and annual dermatologist visits is the best way to ensure any skin damage or cancers are found as early as possible. Early detection of skin cancers in Phoenix can truly save your life. Make skin health a priority today.
Finding a Dermatologist for Skin Cancer Exams in Phoenix
A Full Body Check
During your exam, the dermatologist will do a head-to-toe inspection of your skin. They’ll check your face, scalp, ears, neck, chest, abdomen, back, limbs—pretty much everywhere. This full-body check allows the doctor to look for any suspicious moles, lesions, or other skin changes that could indicate skin cancer.
A Detailed Inspection
The dermatologist will examine any moles, freckles, or other skin marks closely. They’ll look at the size, shape, color, border, and surface of each mark. They’ll check if any have changed over time or look irregular. The doctor may measure certain moles or take photos to monitor them for changes at your follow-up visits. If anything suspicious is detected, a biopsy may be needed.
Questions and Answers
Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have about your skin health or risks. Early detection of skin cancer is critical, so ask if there are any specific signs you should watch for or if more frequent exams are needed. Discuss ways to better protect your skin from sun damage to minimize risks going forward. Your dermatologist is there to address all your concerns and help keep your skin healthy for life.
With regular full-body skin cancer screenings, any suspicious changes can be caught early. While the exam may seem tedious, it could save your life by finding skin cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage. Make these checkups a priority and take comfort knowing your dermatologist will be thorough, taking the time to carefully check every inch of your skin. Your health and peace of mind are worth the effort.
