IF YOU CAN SPOT IT, YOU CAN STOP IT

Skin cancer is a scary topic, but when found and treated early, skin cancers are often curable. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends performing regular self-exams after an initial visit to your dermatologist. For most, a monthly self-exam is ideal, but ask your doctor if you should be doing checks more frequently.

At-home skin exams need to be a habit and not a burden. Studies are being conducted to determine if technology can help increase patient knowledge and behavior related to the detection of melanoma. Researchers are examining if reminders via email or text, along with online tutorials, could lead to more self-exams. As a result, this could lead to an increase in the early detection of skin cancer. Currently, similar learning programs and reminders have proven effective in cases of breast cancer screening, asthma control and sun safety, according to MedPage Today.

Having a doctor to perform a full-body exam will ensure that any existing spots, freckles or moles are normal. From there you can do exams at home, checking for any changes or new growths. A visit to Greenville Dermatology could be a preventative measure that will save you from concerns in the future. Call our office today to schedule an appointment, 864-242-5872.