Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with thousands diagnosed every day. Many people mistakenly think skin cancer isn’t serious because it can just be removed. However, if left untreated, skin cancer can be deadly. Every hour, two people in the U.S. die from skin cancer.
Good News: Early Detection Makes a Difference
Skin cancer is highly curable if caught early. In fact, 99% of cases can be cured when treated early. Skin cancer is also one of the easiest cancers to spot because it shows up on your skin. But many people miss the signs because they’re not looking for them.
Two Types of Skin Cancer
- Melanoma: This is the most serious kind because it spreads quickly if not treated early.
- Non-melanoma: These include basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. They’re less serious than melanoma and easier to treat.
Who’s at Risk?
Everyone can get skin cancer—young or old, fair skin or dark skin. It can appear anywhere on your body, even in places not usually exposed to the sun.
Some things increase your risk:
- More than five sunburns in your life
- A severe, blistering sunburn during childhood
- Indoor tanning (linked to thousands of skin cancer cases each year)
- Family history of skin cancer
- Personal history of skin cancer
Other things that raise your risk include:
- Fair skin, freckles, or light hair
- Having many moles
- Being male
- Older age
Check Your Skin Regularly
Experts recommend checking your skin every month. Look closely for anything new, changing, or unusual. Even a tiny spot or sore that won’t heal or changes shape might be skin cancer.
Get Checked by a Provider
You don’t have to see a dermatologist first. Your primary care provider (PCP) can evaluate your skin and determine if a spot needs removal or testing. If needed, your PCP can connect you with Amberwell Surgical Care for specialized treatment.
Amberwell Surgical Care Can Help
Dr. Roderick Warren is a board-certified general surgeon with over 20 years of experience and head of surgery at Amberwell. He is an experienced expert in removing cancerous and pre-cancerous skin spots. Dr. Warren can examine your skin, remove suspicious spots, and send tissue samples to a lab—all in one place. This means fewer appointments and less stress for you.
If you notice something suspicious, don’t wait. Early detection saves lives!
Remember: Spot it. Check it. Stop it. Schedule your appointment today.
