How to Spot the Early Warning Signs of Skin Cancer Before It Progresses
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, and Arizona’s sunny climate puts people in Phoenix at a higher risk. The intense sunlight increases UV exposure, making regular skin checks a vital part of maintaining your health. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it’s important to stay vigilant and know what to look for. Don’t wait until it’s too late—here’s a guide to help you recognize the early signs of skin cancer and protect yourself.
5 Steps to Catch Early Signs of Skin Cancer
1. Start with Regular Skin Checks
To catch skin cancer early, you must become familiar with your skin. Regularly check your entire body for unusual changes, including areas you might not think about, like your scalp, behind your ears, and between your toes. Use a mirror or ask a loved one to help with hard-to-see spots. Pay special attention to areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as your face, neck, and arms.
Changes in size, shape, or colour of moles and spots could be a red flag. If you’re unsure about a specific spot, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult a licensed dermatologist in Phoenix. A dermatologist can help detect, treat, and prevent skin cancer, among other skin conditions. They can examine you check for skin cancer, and provide expert recommendations to address whatever skin issue you’re facing.
2. Know The ABCDEs of Skin Cancer
One of the easiest ways to remember what to watch for is by following the ABCDE rule:
Asymmetry: One half of a mole or spot doesn’t match the other half.
Border: The edges are irregular, jagged, or blurred.
Colour: The colour is uneven, with shades of brown, black, white, red, or blue.
Diameter: It’s larger than a pencil eraser (about 6 millimetres).
Evolving: Any change in size, shape, colour, or symptoms like bleeding or itching.
These signs don’t automatically mean you have the condition, but they’re definitely worth getting checked out.
3. Watch out for New Growths or Persistent Sores
If you notice a new growth on your skin that doesn’t go away or a sore that refuses to heal after several weeks, it could be an early warning sign of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma often start this way. These types of cancer are less aggressive than melanoma but still require prompt attention.
In some cases, the growth may look like a shiny bump, a rough patch, or a red, scaly area. It’s easy to dismiss these as harmless, but staying proactive can make all the difference. Consult a dermatologist if you have such experiences.
4. Itching, Pain, or Bleeding
While most moles and spots are harmless, skin cancer can sometimes cause discomfort. If a mole or lesion starts to itch, hurt, or bleed, it’s time to take it seriously. These symptoms often signal that something isn’t right beneath the surface.
Visiting a specialist for a professional evaluation is crucial. A qualified dermatologist can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, conduct a biopsy to determine whether the spot is cancerous.
5. Know Your Level of Risk
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Knowing your susceptibility is helpful, as this knowledge can make you more vigilant. If you’re having frequent sunburns or long periods in the sun without protection, you may be at risk. People with lighter skin, hair, and eyes are also at higher risk. A family history of skin cancer can increase your likelihood, as well as a history of tanning beds (think UV light!).
If any of these apply to you, consider scheduling regular skin exams with a professional as part of your self-care routine.
Prevention Is Always Better
Protecting your skin is the best way to reduce your risk. Make sunscreen your daily habit, even on cloudy days. A broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 can block harmful UVA and UVB rays. Research shows that SPF 30 can block up to 97% of UVB rays, offering significant protection against skin cancer and premature aging. Cover up with clothing, hats, and sunglasses when spending extended time outdoors, and try to avoid the sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Remember, prevention is easier than treatment.
You can also prevent growths from developing into full-blown cancer through routine checks. Routine skin exams are recommended annually for most people, but if you’re at higher risk, you might need more frequent visits. Even if your first skin exam comes back clear, stay consistent. Skin cancer can develop over time, so regular monitoring is essential.
Wrapping It Up
Skin cancer is a serious condition, but early detection can make all the difference. By staying proactive, protecting your skin, and scheduling regular check-ups, you can minimize your risks and take control of your health.
Never ignore the warning signs, be it a mole that looks a little different or a persistent sore that won’t heal. Reach out to a dermatologist for a professional opinion—it’s a small step that could make a huge impact on your well-being.
