How to Self-Check for Skin Cancer Correctly

Australia has one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, largely due to intense UV radiation caused by its geographical location. Skin cancer affects about two out of three Australians in their lifetime.

To minimize this risk, regular skin check-ups and early detection are crucial for prevention and effective treatment.

In particular, Melanoma, can be deadly if not treated promptly. However, when caught in its early stages, it has a high survival rate.

Performing regular self-examinations is key to recognizing changes in your skin. That said, many people may not conduct these checks properly. Here is a guide to help you complete a thorough and correct skin check.

How often should you self-check for skin cancer?

It’s important to perform regular skin checks, but how often should you do so? To ensure early detection, dermatologists recommend monthly self-checks between professional skin checks. . This frequency helps you stay familiar with your skin’s natural appearance and makes it easier to spot changes.

What about a professional skin check?

However, you should make sure you get a skin examination every year, or more often if you have a higher risk of skin cancer due to factors such as a family history, frequent sun exposure, or a large number of moles.

The Skin Self-Check: What Should You Look For?

When conducting a self-check, you’ll need to look for anything unusual. This includes new growths, spots, or changes in moles. One of the most effective methods for identifying potentially dangerous moles is the ABCDE Rule:

– Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match.

– Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.

– Color: The color isn’t uniform and may include shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.

– Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

– Evolving: The mole changes over time in size, shape, or color.

In addition to moles, look for other unusual skin changes, like:

• • A sore that doesn’t heal.

• • A red or scaly patch.

• • A lump that’s shiny, pale, or pearly.

• • A lesion that bleeds, oozes, or crusts.

What are the requirements for a skin self-check ?

You need to prepare for your self-check by taking the following steps:

– Bright Lighting: Well-lit spaces make it easier to observe every detail.

– Mirror: Use a full-length mirror, and have a hand-held mirror to examine hard-to-see areas.

– Camera or Notebook: Consider documenting your findings with photos or written notes. Tracking changes over time will be easier this way.

– Assistance: You may need assistance for areas that are difficult to see, such as the back or scalp. Ask a family member or partner for assistance..

How Should You Perform a Full-Body Skin Cancer Self-Check?

Every part of your body needs to be checked. Start from your head and work your way down. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• • Face and neck:

pay special attention to your nose, lips, and ears. Skin cancers often develop in areas frequently exposed to the sun. Use your hand-held mirror to examine behind your ears.

• • Scalp:

Part your hair into sections and look carefully at your skin. It might be helpful to ask someone to check the back of your head and neck for you.

• • Hands and arms:
    

Observe your hands, including the palms, the spaces between your fingers, and under your nails. Next, examine the front and back of your forearms starting at your wrists.

Continue up to your elbows and upper arms. Keep an eye on your underarms, as cancerous spots can appear in these areas as well.

• • Chest, Torso, and Breasts
    

Women should lift and examine the skin under their breasts. Remember, skin cancers can develop in areas that aren’t exposed to the sun, so it’s crucial to check everywhere.

Inspect your sides and torso using a mirror or ask for help to avoid missing anything.

• • Back and shoulders
    

The back is one of the hardest areas to check. Use a hand-held mirror along with your full-length mirror to examine your upper and lower back as well as your shoulders.

Take the time to examine the back of your neck and the upper part of your buttocks. If you find it difficult, ask a trusted friend or family member to assist with these hard-to-see spots.

• • Legs and Feet
    

Continue by checking your legs from top to bottom, making sure to examine the front, back, and sides. Pay close attention to your knees and the skin behind them. The lower legs, ankles, and feet are also important areas to examine, even if they rarely see the sun.

Look between your toes and under your toenails, as skin cancer can develop here too. Make sure you take a look at your feet’s soles.

• • Genital and Buttock Areas
    

As mentioned, cancerous cells can also occur in areas with little exposure to sunlight, so it’s important to check your buttocks and genital area. Use a mirror to inspect these regions thoroughly.

What should you do if something seems suspicious during a skin self-check?

Finding something unusual doesn’t automatically mean you have skin cancer, but it’s crucial to take any changes seriously. Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider or dermatologist as soon as possible.

Early diagnosis can make all the difference in treatment success, so it’s always better to be cautious and seek professional advice if you’re unsure.

By following this guide, you can perform skin self-checks confidently and effectively. Prevention remains your best defense, so along with regular self-checks, protect yourself by avoiding excessive UV radiation. Combine sun safety measures, and annual professional check-ups to reduce your risk of serious skin complications. Taking these proactive steps is the key to maintaining healthy skin.