The Importance of Annual Skin Cancer Screenings in Houston

Skin cancer screenings—whether in Houston or anywhere else—should be considered as vital as an annual visit to the dentist or regular eye checks. Annual dermatology check-ups are key to the early detection of potential skin cancer. They also give you the confidence to perform regular self-examinations to highlight any issue that requires further examination.

The Vital Role of Annual Dermatology Check-Ups 

• Skin cancer stats
• Why early detection of skin cancer is crucial

Skin cancer stats

Cases of skin cancer in the USA have been rising rapidly over the past 30 years, with current estimates of new daily diagnoses now standing at a staggering 9,500 per day! Thankfully, the ability to detect skin cancer has dramatically improved—as have the treatment options.

Skin cancer can affect anyone, irrespective of gender, age, and skin color. By far the biggest risk that increases the chance of disease is over-exposure to UV rays. This can be natural sunlight or from indoor tanning booths/lights. While the use of a high SPF sun cream helps reduce this, it should be combined with regular (annual) dermatological checks to ensure that any skin anomaly is discovered at the earliest stage.

Why early detection of skin cancer is crucial

When caught early and treated, the (5-year) survival rate for the most common types of skin cancers (basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas) is an impressive 99%. This is for those who are diagnosed before the cancer gets the chance to advance.

However, if it isn’t discovered until it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, this figure drops to 75%. If allowed to progress further, affecting distant lymph nodes and other organs, the survival rate drops to 35%.

These sobering figures show the very reason why early detection is crucial, making regular skin cancer screening one of the most important health checks everyone should undergo each year.

Booking Skin Cancer Screenings in Houston (or anywhere else)

• Skin cancer screenings for every age group
• Diarize your annual dermatology check-ups

Skin cancer screenings for every age group

Although it’s true that skin cancer is more commonly diagnosed in those aged 50 and above, this doesn’t mean that younger people don’t need to have regular check-ups. Dermatologists recommend that even those in their 20s and 30s should have an annual check—and this becomes even more important for those who have any significant risk factors.

These include:

• A family history of skin cancer.
• Being particularly fair-skinned.
• A previous diagnosis.
• Frequent sun exposure.

Diarize your annual dermatology check-ups

The easiest way to ensure you don’t forget to have a yearly check-up is to book the next appointment when having the current one. Most dermatologists will happily reserve this a year in advance—or, if not, will arrange to contact you in good time before the next is due.

Adding it to your physical or digital diary is also an excellent way to remember. This, combined with regular self-checks at home (weekly or monthly) will ensure that any issue is picked up as early as possible. Should treatment be needed, then this will help ensure that you fall into the happy 99% success rate that today’s advanced care offers.

Book the Best Skin Cancer Screenings in Houston at Bayou City Dermatology

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the USA. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that one in five Americans will suffer, making regular screenings an essential element of healthcare.

At Bayou City Dermatology, our skin cancer specialists are dedicated to both early detection and the ultimate, cutting-edge skin cancer treatments. Whether you’re worried about an irregularly shaped mole or simply want the reassurance of a professional annual assessment, our service really is second to none.

Discover more at https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/clinical/skin-cancer and book your appointment today.