Skin cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers, but success in both these things is based on catching cancers early.
It is for this reason that we recommend annual skin cancer screenings at Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center. We’re located conveniently to the Orlando area, in Windermere, Florida, and our trained, professional staff is experienced in skin cancer screening.
What To Expect
We provide screening in a comfortable, private one-on-one manner. The screening is a full-body visual examination that usually takes about 30 minutes, and is the most effective way to detect skin cancer in its early stages. Screening is especially important if you’re at higher risk of skin cancer due to past or current medical conditions, if you have a history of severe sunburns or family history of skin cancer, or if you have light skin, blonde or red hair.
The exam consists of visual inspection of your entire body, so we provide comfortable gowns and take great care during your screening. We want you to be comfortable during the exam. It’s recommended not to wear makeup or nail polish, so that our doctor can see your skin better. Those with long hair also should wear it loosely, for better examination of the scalp. We’ll also ask you for personal and family history, such as the occurrence of skin cancer in your family, your sun exposure, and any medications you take, so that we can diagnose and treat you most effectively.
Know Your Skin
Up to twenty percent of Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer at some point in their lives, but when it’s detected early, it can be treated quickly and effectively. Self-exams at home are another good way to keep on top of your skin cancer risk and stay in tune with any moles or irregularities that could become cancerous., These self-exams, however, do not substitute for examinations by a dermatologist. Even when checking regularly at home, some areas are difficult to examine yourself, such as the scalp, back and groin areas.
Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body, not just in sun-exposed areas. It also can strike people of any race and background, but is very treatable once detected, even the most dangerous form, melanoma.
What’s Next
If your skin cancer screening turns up any irregularities or possible cancerous growths, we can perform a biopsy in our office. Biopsies are easy, fast, and don’t usually cause much pain. We use a local anesthetic to ensure a painless biopsy. Once we analyze the biopsy and determine if it is benign or cancerous, Dr. Jeannette Hudgens can consult with you about further treatment options.
An annual skin cancer screening means early detection, so that if you develop skin cancer, it will be easier to treat with a better outcome. If you have any questions about your skin cancer risk or need to schedule a screening, contact us right away at Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center.