There’s really nothing quite like the warmth of the sun on your face. Well, except maybe the little routine of applying sunscreen before stepping outside on a bright day. But even if you’re trying to keep your skin in good shape—eating foods that boost skin health, or following those best skincare tips you hear about—it’s crucial to know what the leading warning sign of skin cancer is. Recognizing this could help you see a dermatologist early, which can make a big difference in outcomes.
Experts highlight the importance of awareness. For instance, Dr. Adam Friedman, a dermatology professor at The George Washington University, and Dr. Michael Christopher, a dermatologist from Ironwood Dermatology in Tucson, emphasize some key points.
There are three main types of skin cancer that people are often diagnosed with: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Dr. Friedman notes that non-melanoma skin cancers like basal and squamous cell carcinomas aren’t derived from moles. Instead, they can show up as various unusual skin changes, such as sores, bumps, or irritated patches. “These are highly treatable if caught early,” says Dr. Christopher, highlighting that although melanoma is less frequent, it has a greater potential to spread and can be quite serious.
Despite their different appearances, there’s one critical sign that should prompt you to contact your doctor for all types of skin cancer: change. Dr. Christopher stresses that if you notice a mole growing, bleeding, itching, or not healing—basically any change in a skin spot—that’s something to pay attention to. Also, if new spots are popping up, they warrant a check-up as well.
Acting swiftly when you notice any changes is essential for early detection. “It might just be something harmless, or it could be melanoma,” notes Dr. Christopher. The earlier you catch something, the better the outlook tends to be. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, if melanoma is found before it spreads, the survival rate is over 99%. So, if anything feels off, don’t hold back from reaching out to a doctor. “That’s the key,” Dr. Christopher adds. “Finding cancer in its early stages can really help change your life for the better.”
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