The big ‘C’ – cancer: it’s like a boogeyman, everyone fears it. Yet thanks to modern-day medicine in Australia and beyond, you don’t have to be fearful of cancer as an illness.
Nowadays, with early detection and treatment, you can fight off cancer and live a healthy and productive life without the big C hovering over your head like a grey cloud.
As what was mentioned above, early detection and treatment are needed in order to successfully fend off cancer – that holds true with a lot of different kinds of cancer. One of them is skin cancer.
Skin cancer: Early detection is key in successfully fighting off the disease
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that’s characterised by the abnormal growth of skin cells and other related types of cells. Carcinomas, melanomas, and so on are some of the most common kinds of skin cancer.
Whatever the type of skin cancer, skin health experts believe that early detection is needed to succeed in treating the illness. Among the recommended methods of detecting skin cancer is performing regular full body exams.
Undergoing regular full body exams can catch skin cancer in its earliest stages – which is said to be the most ideal time for treatment.
Don’t wait until you spot any drastic changes to your skin’s health before booking a full body skin cancer exam – book a session today in a skin cancer clinic Gold Coast.
Expectations for your full body skin cancer screening
Just like with any other medical test, full body skin cancer tests can be a nerve-wracking procedure that can induce anxiety to many patients like yourself.
Luckily, education is helpful in alleviating the stress and anxiety surrounding this medical test. This makes the full body screening a less stressful experience overall.
Here’s what to expect:
Before the full body skin cancer test
First things first, you’ll need to schedule your appointment. Make sure you choose a reputable dermatologist who specialises in skin cancer screenings.
Before your appointment, there are a few things you should do to prepare. Take note of any irregular changes to your skin, including but not limited to enlarged moles, new spots, and so on.
Make a list of questions or concerns you have. It’s also a good idea to remove nail polish and make-up so your dermatologist can see your skin clearly.
Next, when you arrive at the clinic, you’ll be asked to check in and fill out some forms about your medical history. Be honest and thorough as much as possible. You’ll then be taken to an exam room where you’ll change into a patient examination gown.
During the full body skin cancer test
Upon entering into the examination room, your dermatologist will start everything with a conversation with you. They’ll ask about your medical history, including any family history of skin cancer.
Additionally, your dermatologist will enquire about your sun exposure habits and any recent changes in your skin. This is the time to bring up any spots or moles that concern you.
After the initial conversation, you’re now ready to proceed to the main event – the full body exam. Your dermatologist will examine your skin from head to toe. Take note that your dermatologist will employ different testing instruments ranging from a dermatoscope to various cameras.
After the full body skin cancer exam
If your dermatologist finds something concerning during the full body exam, they may recommend a biopsy, where a small sample of the skin is taken for further testing.
If a biopsy is needed, don’t panic. The process is straightforward and usually done right in the dermatologist’s office. They’ll numb the area with a local anesthetic, so you won’t feel pain. Then, they’ll remove a small piece of the skin and send it to a lab for analysis. Results typically come back within a week or two.
Once the results are in, your dermatologist will discuss them with you. If the biopsy results indicate that you have the skin disease, they’ll explain what cancer type and stage you’re in and recommend a treatment plan. This might include further surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, radiation, or topical medications. Early detection usually means more treatment options and a higher success rate.
Moving forward
Regardless of the results, follow-up appointments are important. Your dermatologist will schedule regular check-ups to monitor your skin and catch any new issues early. They’ll also give you tips for protecting your skin from the sun and other preventive measures.
Prevention is a significant part of skin cancer care. Your dermatologist will likely recommend using broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds. They’ll also advise you to perform regular self-exams at home, checking for any new or changing spots.
A full body exam for skin cancer is an essential part of maintaining your overall health. By understanding what to expect and preparing for the exam, you can approach it with confidence.
Remember, early detection is key to effective treatment. Schedule your exam today and take an active role in protecting your skin. Your future self will thank you.