Skin cancer is prevalent in large numbers throughout South Africa. And although basal and squamous cell carcinomas are the most common, melanoma also occurs in large numbers. The latter is by far the deadliest form of skin cancer, killing many people here in South Africa and around the world.
Early
detection of the disease dramatically reduces the risk of death and the treatment
cost. Which is why it’s imperative to have an annual appointment with your
dermatologist.
Despite
increased awareness and proactive measures, skin cancer remains the most common
cancer in this country. But the good news is, most cases of skin cancer can be treated
successfully when caught early.
One
of the key differences between skin cancer and other malignancies is that it is
visible on the skin’s surface. Accordingly, a screening by your dermatologist is
a quick, non-invasive, painless, and highly-effective way to detect skin cancer
at it earliest and most treatable stages.
Monthly self-exams
In addition to practising daily prevention such as applying sunscreen religiously, women and men should perform a monthly head-to-toe self-exam. Assign a specific date each month to thoroughly inspect your face and body for suspicious lesions, including fleshcoloured, pearl-like bumps; red, firm bumps; scaly patches and sores that won’t heal.
It’s
also important to track changes and evaluate moles and markings. This means
taking note of any asymmetry, irregular borders, colour changes that aren’t uniform,
a diameter greater than 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser), and evolution in
appearance.
Annual dermatologist
check-up
If
you’re concerned about anything, make an appointment with your dermatologist
immediately. If further assessment is necessary, your dermatologist will take a
sample of skin from a particular lesion for a biopsy.
The
take-out is: see your dermatologist annually without fail to catch possible melanoma
diagnosis early.
