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Skin Cancer Q&A
Norterra Family MedicineWhat raises my risk of skin cancer?
Your risk of developing skin cancer increases as you age. Men are more likely than women to develop certain types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Other significant risk factors include:
- Fair skin tone
- Skin with a large number of moles
- Family history
- Smoking
- Jobs or leisure activity involving a lot of outdoor time
What happens at a skin cancer screening?
A skin cancer screening involves a physical exam during which the doctors use advanced dermatoscope technology. This allows the doctors to examine suspicious skin lesions clearly and identify potentially cancerous sites, especially melanoma.
What if I have a suspicious lesion or mole?
The doctors at Norterra Family Medicine perform a biopsy if they find a skin lesion that looks suspicious. Any atypical moles or lesions that are precancerous or questionable are excised and destroyed.
How can I reduce my risk of skin cancer?
Regular screenings catch skin cancer when it’s in its earliest stages and most treatable. Screenings also help identify abnormal moles or spots that have the potential to develop into cancer.
To protect yourself year-round, follow specific habits:
- Do not use tanning beds or sunlamps
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and protect your skin with hats and clothing
- Perform skin self-exams
What are the signs of skin cancer?
If you notice one of your moles has changed in shape, size, or color, have it checked immediately. Through regular self-exams, you may also notice a change in the number of dark spots or that certain ones look different than others. Ask one of the doctors about new growths and sores that won’t heal. Unusual bleeding or itching and texture changes could be other warning signs.
What treatments are available for acne?
Dr. Weiss specializes in acne treatments, such as accutane and LED light therapy. She can also recommend at-home treatments to keep your skin looking its best; the top medical-grade skin care products and sunscreen are available at the partner practice of Paradise Medspa and Wellness next door.
