We’ve all heard about the importance of breast and prostate cancer screening, but did you know that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime? The numbers don’t lie—unlike other cancers, when you’re exposed to the sun or tanning beds, you don’t have to be older to develop skin cancer, and it can be deadly if left untreated. If you haven’t been getting your annual skin check Melbourne recently, now’s the time to start! Here are some of the things to note about skin check Melbourne.
What Is a Skin Cancer Screening?
A skin cancer screening, also called a skin check Melbourne, is a visual assessment of your skin. When you visit your dermatologist for your annual exam or any time you have concerns about changes in your skin, such as new spots or existing ones that have changed appearance. These growths don’t seem to go away with usual treatment or self-exams of any kind; you can expect an expert examination. This skin check helps screen for melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. If any signs of trouble are found during your exam—or if changes have been noted since your last visit—the doctor will recommend a biopsy to remove tissue and determine whether they are cancerous.
What Is It Used For?
Skin cancer screening can help you determine whether any worrisome changes to your skin are benign or signs of something more dangerous. It helps your doctor distinguish between benign pigmented lesions, which are growths on your skin that can be removed without any damage to surrounding tissue, and melanoma, which can spread quickly and lead to death if left untreated.
Can You Describe the Procedure for A Skin Cancer Screening?
Skin cancer typically starts on sun-exposed areas of your body like your face, neck and arms and usually appears as a new or changing spot on your skin. If you’re concerned about skin cancer, it’s smart to see your dermatologist for regular screenings; they can perform a full-body exam with a special magnifying tool called a dermatoscope to look for changes in areas that aren’t always easily visible to you.
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Where To Get Your Skin Checked?
- General Practitioner
(GDP)Not all doctors will perform a skin check Melbourne, but your GP is one of your best resources for staying healthy. For example, most GPs can refer you to a dermatologist (doctors who specialize in skin conditions) if they notice anything suspicious. There are also government-funded services available in many areas to perform free screenings or provide advice on skincare and general health.
- Skin Cancer Clinics
If you don’t have access to health insurance or your primary care physician offers minimal medical services, check with your local community to see a skin cancer clinic in your area. Some clinics are public, but many offer low-cost or even free services. In addition to providing basic exams and education, they also research cancers that can be useful to patients and professionals alike.
Are There Any Risks Associated with The Skin Check?
The risks of getting a skin check Melbourne are minimal. The dermatologist will be using lasers to look for any pre-cancerous cells on your skin, so you’ll only experience some warmth or a cool sensation while they’re working. And, because it takes time to develop melanoma and other forms of cancerous growths, there is no real risk of developing cancer after one visit. However, these tests are usually repeated every few years as well as when you go in for other procedures (such as facial peels or laser hair removal).