The Importance of Early Detection in Skin Cancer Treatment

Texas is one of the sunniest states in the country. While the sun is vital for overall health, prolonged exposure without adequate protection can lead to skin cancer. Early diagnosis is critical for positive patient outcomes. At Tru-Skin Dermatology, we offer patients free cancer screenings and comprehensive and customizable skin cancer treatments at our Austin, Bastrop, Spring Branch, Hallettsville, La Grange, and Round Rock, TX clinics. Our team has access to the latest skin cancer treatment technology to quickly remove certain kinds of skin cancer. Learn more about the life-saving potential of early skin cancer detection, and then contact us to schedule your free screening.

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, not only in the United States but across the globe. Damaged DNA causes the skin cells to multiply rapidly, leading to an abnormal growth or tumor. There are two different types of tumors. A malignant tumor is a cancer that spreads to other parts of the body. If left untreated, a benign tumor may increase in size but will not spread to other body parts. Getting any abnormal growths on your skin checked out by a dermatologist is critical. Some of the most common types of skin cancer include:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma
• Melanoma

While skin cancer is widespread, the risk factors often associated with it are well known. It is crucial each patient takes the necessary precautions to reduce their chance of developing skin cancer. Understanding the risk factors and tailoring a prevention plan, such as wearing sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and seeking shade during peak daytime hours, is crucial for your long-term health. Learn more about some of the common risk factors of cancer, including the following:

UV Exposure: The most common cause of skin cancer is UV rays from the sun as well as tanning beds. Ultraviolet rays can cause damage to your skin, often in the form of sunburns. Over time, repeated damage can eventually lead to mutations in the form of cancer.

Genetics: If your family has a history of developing skin cancer, it becomes increasingly important you protect yourself. Individuals with a family history of skin cancer are more susceptible to developing the disease.

Skin Type: Melanin helps protect the skin from dangerous UV rays. However, individuals with light skin, hair, and eyes that contain less pigmentation are more likely to develop skin cancer.

Age: While skin cancer can occur at any age, older individuals have a higher prevalence due to accumulated UV exposure over time.

Educating yourself about these risk factors allows you and others to take a proactive stance against this pervasive disease.

Early detection of skin cancer is critical since it can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and reduce the severity of interventions. When identified at an early stage, skin cancer is often more responsive to less aggressive treatments, which can minimize both the physical and emotional impact on patients. Early detection increases the survival rates, especially for melanoma, which can be extremely aggressive. When caught before it spreads, the five-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%. However, the survival rate drops dramatically once it metastasizes to other organs.

While visiting a dermatologist is essential for diagnosis and treatment, it is up to each patient to know the common signs of skin cancer so they can conduct an at-home screening. Knowledge of the common symptoms, routine self-examination, and regular professional screenings can improve your prognosis if skin cancer is discovered. Remember, skin cancer is most treatable during its earliest stages. Some of the most common signs of skin cancer include the following:

• Open Sores That Heal and Reopen
• Red Patches or Irritated Areas
• Scaly, Red Patches That Crust or Bleed
• Firm, Wart-Like, or Elevated Growths
• Large Brownish Spot with Dark Areas
• Mole That Changes in Color, Size, or Texture