Skin Cancer Screening NYC

Skin cancer screening in New York, NY

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of human cancer. Although it is much more common in people with fair skin, people of all ethnic backgrounds can develop skin cancer. The good news is skin cancer is easily preventable and is usually curable if detected early. A head-to-toe skin check is an important way to detect skin cancer, and other skin conditions, early.

Why is it important to get a skin cancer screening?

Although the benefit of getting a skin cancer screening is unclear for people with no lesions or symptoms on their skin when there are suspicious lesions early detection of skin cancer saves lives. You will only know if you get a diagnosis.

Skin cancer screening recommendations

Recommendation as to who needs a skin cancer screening and how often will depend on an individual's personal and family history of skin cancer, health history, skin color, habits, and location. Depending on one's risk, a skin cancer screening might be recommended anywhere from annually to ever 3-4 months.

People who should having a skin cancer screening at least annually include those with a:

• personal or family history of skin cancer
• history of >50 moles
• history of blistering sunburn
• history of tanning bed use
• history of breast or thyroid cancer
• history of changing mole
• history of non-healing sore
• history of a rash or nodule that doesn't go away
• history of organ transplant

Also note that people with red hair have a greater risk of skin cancer, regardless of their complexion, and should also be more vigilant.

People with skin of color should also get checked if they have suspicious moles, discoloration or skin changes of concern. Despite their lower rates of skin cancer, than people with lighter skin, individuals with darker skin still do get skin cancer and often do poorly when they do as it is detected later.

What happens during a skin cancer screening?

During a skin cancer screening you will be asked to underess to your underwear so that the dermatologist can do a full body examination. If you have concerns about specific lesions or areas covered by your underwear, let the doctor know so these to can be evaluated.

If a suspicious lesion is identified, it will be biopsied and sent to a laboratory to be examined by a dermatopathologist.

READ: What to expect at a dermatologist skin check

Do I have to come in person for a skin cancer screening?

Generally, yes, it is best to do skin cancer screeings in person. Although some technology now exists to allow evaluation of individual lesions virtually, in person evaluation allows for a comprehensive, professional and more thorough examination. In person skin checks also provide the opportunity to do a biopsy if it is advised.

Next steps: Skin check dermatologist in Manhattan

If you would like a mole check by dermatologist, have concerns about a changing skin lesion, have a discolored area or other skin changes and are concerned about skin cancer, it is important that you get evaluated. Come in for a dermatologist skin cancer screening.  Dr. Dina D. Strachan, MD is is an expert in treating patients of all skin types.  For expert skin cancer screenings in the NYC area please contact Aglow Dermatology.