Skin Cancer Screening FAQs

Posted by Cedars Dermatology, 1st April 2020

Here at Cedars Dermatology, a skin clinic in locations such as Northwood, Harley Street and Elstree, our dermatologists are keen to help with any skincare problems. One skin problem that we’re often asked about is skin cancer. In modern times, we’re much more aware of what it is, how it presents and what can be done to both help treat it and minimise your risk of it developing. In this post, we’ll talk through some of these things.

What is skin cancer?

There are lots of different types, but we’ll focus on melanoma, which involves a change to a mole, freckle or ‘normal’ area of the skin. Melanoma is one of the world’s most common cancers – Cancer Research UK acknowledges that about 16,000 people are diagnosed with it every year here in the UK, making it the fifth most-common type. As well as this, numbers have increased in the last few decades.

How is skin cancer treated?

After being identified through skin cancer screening, Mohs, a type of micrographic surgery, can carefully remove it in thin layers.

Who gets skin cancer?

Anyone can get it, although it’s more common in older people. While UV from the sun or sunbeds is the main cause, your skin, hair and eye colour can also play a part, and if you have a family history of it, your risk is increased. In addition, those who have a large number of moles are also more at risk than others.

How do I know if I have skin cancer?

Our skin cancer screening service is ideal for those who are unsure as to whether they have the condition. It allows us to take a closer look at any moles and to determine if any areas need removing.

How do I check my moles?

You can use ABCDE:

Asymmetry – do both halves look the same?
Border – are the edges blurred, irregular or notched?
Colour – is it even?
Diameter – have you noticed a change in shape or size?
Expert – our dermatologists can help identify skin cancer through skin cancer screening

Will my skin cancer come back?

Even if you have been treated for skin cancer, you should have skin cancer screening again if you become concerned about any of your moles.

How can I minimise my risk of developing skin cancer?

There’s lots you can to help minimise your risk, including:

• Keep an eye on your moles
• Have a skin cancer screening if you are concerned
• Use daily sun protection and keep skin covered
• Avoid sunbeds

To find out more about moles, skin cancer screening and how our dermatologists can help you, get in touch with our skin clinic today.