Skin cancer screening involves a visual examination of your skin by a medical professional to identify any suspicious moles, freckles, or other marks. Early detection is important for effective treatment, leading to more successful options and reducing aggressive interventions.
Standard Screening Recommendations
General guidelines for skin cancer screenings vary. The American Cancer Society suggests professional skin exams every three years for people aged 20 to 40, increasing to annually for individuals over 40.
Individualizing Your Screening Schedule
The frequency of skin cancer screenings should be tailored to individual risk factors. People with a personal history of skin cancer, including melanoma or non-melanoma types like basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, often require more frequent check-ups, potentially every three to six months. A family history of skin cancer also increases risk, with some recommendations suggesting annual screenings for those with a family history of melanoma.
The number and type of moles on your body can also influence your screening schedule. Having many moles (over 50 or 100) or atypical moles (larger, irregular shapes/colors) increases melanoma risk. Individuals with fair skin, light eyes, or red/blonde hair, who sunburn easily, are at increased risk. Past sun exposure, including blistering sunburns or tanning bed use, also warrants more frequent screenings. As individuals age, especially over 50 or 65, skin cancer risk increases, making regular screenings important.
What to Expect During a Professional Screening
During a professional skin cancer screening, a medical professional, often a dermatologist, will visually inspect your skin from head to toe. This comprehensive examination includes areas not exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, behind the ears, between fingers and toes, and the soles of the feet. You will be asked to undress and wear a gown for a thorough check. The dermatologist may use a magnifying tool, such as a dermatoscope, to closely examine suspicious spots. The painless exam takes about 10 to 15 minutes; if a suspicious lesion is found, the dermatologist may take a photo for monitoring or recommend a biopsy.
Your Role in Early Detection
Regular self-skin exams are an important complement to professional screenings, empowering you to monitor your own skin for changes. Performing a self-exam involves systematically checking your entire body, including areas like the scalp, ears, neck, chest, abdomen, arms, hands, legs, feet, buttocks, and genital area. Use a full-length mirror and a hand mirror in a well-lit room. When performing a self-exam, look for any new spots, or changes in existing moles. The “ABCDEs” of melanoma provide a guide for identifying potentially concerning moles:
Asymmetry (one half does not match the other)
Border (irregular, notched, or blurred edges)
Color (uneven color or multiple shades like tan, brown, black, white, red, or blue)
Diameter (larger than 6 millimeters or a pencil eraser)
Evolving (any change in size, shape, color, or elevation, or new symptoms like itching or bleeding)
If you notice any of these signs or any other suspicious changes, contact a healthcare provider promptly.