Most of us ignore skin abnormalities as we age. There is just too much to do in a day, so noticing a new mole or a strange looking bump just seems too trivial to worry about. But, health care professionals point out the top 10 reasons to get your skin screened for cancer, and they might just change your mind.
It is not a huge time commitment. It may seem daunting to figure out what to look for, but screenings do not take long. In additions, your doctor can quickly explain what to look out for between screenings.
Early detection often translates into more successful treatment. Finding skin cancer before it has a chance to really take root increases the probability of curing it, up to 95%.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world. Just in the United States, around one million new cases come up every year. With rates like these, you need to be sure to protect yourself.
People who feel like they avoid the sun effectively may actually still be at risk. Indirect exposure can add up over the course of your life. Sunscreens, while effective, can still not block all harmful rays. Screening is the only way to be sure.
Many clinics offer free screenings. Price does not have to be a barrier to making sure that you are healthy. Call around your local area to locate a clinic with such screenings, whether they are special events or regular offerings.
While early detection has reduced rates of other cancers, skin cancer death rates are on the rise. People may be more likely to be scared into checking for colon cancer, for example, while a skin abnormality may seem too small to worry about.
You might find another type of cancer or skin problem when you visit the doctor. This can help you prevent cancer as well as other abnormalities.
Having a record of changes to your skin improves the efficacy of future screenings. Most of us are not likely to keep a journal of what happens to our skin. Your doctor, however, will record any problem areas and keep an eye on them as you return for screenings.
Doctors know the risk factors for skin cancer better than laymen. Certain societal groups have higher levels of risk of skin cancer. Your doctor can let you know if you need to be especially vigilant, given your family history.
Skin cancer can spread, causing other, more serious forms of cancer. A cancerous mole will not necessarily stay on the skin. It can change into a more serious and dangerous type of cancer.
For most people, a yearly screening is recommended. Think about your medical history and the last time you had a screening. Also, remember that the most distressing thing about the prevalence of skin cancer deaths is that is preventable. Use these top 10 reasons to get your skin screened for cancer to motivate yourself to get to the doctor. A small inconvenience now can save you an unquantifiable amount of trouble farther down the road.
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