Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States—in fact, experts currently estimate that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetimes. That’s why it’s so important to get skin cancer screenings, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or any suspicious marks or changes. Dr. Lucas Bingham of Coastal Hills Dermatology in Ladera Ranch, California, offers comprehensive screenings and can help diagnose precancerous and cancerous lesions. Schedule a screening by calling the office or using the online booking tool to get started.
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells. The two most common types of skin cancer—basal and squamous cell carcinoma—are very curable, but can cause skin damage and may be expensive to treat. The third most common type of skin cancer is melanoma, which is the most dangerous and deadly. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, both natural and artificial, causes the majority of skin cancer cases.
Anyone can get skin cancer, but it’s more often found in people who:
Also, if you have precancerous skin lesions or abnormal moles, it can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Dr. Bingham can examine and diagnose these as well, and he can ensure that you know what to look for to detect potentially cancerous lesions.
Skin cancer primarily develops on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, including your:
Skin cancer can also sometimes develop in areas that don't get much sun, such as:
For those with darker skin, skin cancer is more likely to be found on these nonexposed areas.
Not all skin cancers look the same, and a change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. However, the ABCDEs of melanoma is a general guide for remembering what to watch out for:
While self-screening is a good idea, it’s important to talk to Dr. Bingham if you notice any of these signs or any changes to your skin. He can offer expert diagnosis and provide further testing if necessary. When skin cancer is caught early, treatment is more likely to work well, so don’t wait: Call or book a skin cancer screening online today at Coastal Hills Dermatology.