Skin Cancer Treatment in Waterloo

Skin cancer can take many forms, but there are signs to watch out for if you think you might be developing skin cancer. This is the ABCDEF rule: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution, Funny Looking.

• Asymmetrical spots or lesions have an irregular shape.
• The border of a cancerous spot is often blurry or has irregularly shaped edges.
• A mole or spot that is multicolored is more likely to be cancerous.
• A mole or spot that is large in diameter is likewise more likely to be cancerous. A mole larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser) should be brought to your dermatologist’s attention.
• One of the most important signs to look out for is evolution—growth in size or otherwise a change in shape, size, or color can indicate that a spot has developed into skin cancer.
• Lastly, if one of your moles looks funny or different from the rest, it is more likely to be cancerous.

Skin cancer treatment in Waterloo is most effective when caught early, so being familiar with these signs may save your life!

Since the primary cause of skin cancer is exposure to UV radiation, risk factors for skin cancer all derive from overexposure to sunlight or tanning beds. If you spend lots of time outside in direct sunlight (for example, if you work outdoors or if you live in a sunny climate), you may be at increased risk. Similarly, people who live in high-altitude climates may also be at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Because the atmosphere is thinner at high altitudes, you are exposed to stronger UV rays.

Your genetics also increase your risk of skin cancer. If you have lighter skin, especially if you have a history of sunburns and get sunburnt easily, you are likely at an increased risk. Likewise, having multiple moles, especially irregularly shaped moles, may increase your risk; melanoma has been known to develop from moles.

If you notice changes in your skin, schedule an appointment at a dermatology clinic. The nurse or dermatologist will closely examine the lesion or growth. If your provider determines that there’s a risk of it being cancerous, a skin biopsy may be performed and a sample sent for testing. If the sample is cancerous, Premier Dermatology can guide you on the best plan for skin cancer treatment in Waterloo.

Prevent skin cancer by avoiding sun damage and tanning beds. Avoid going out in the middle of the day, from mid-morning to early evening, even on overcast days. If you do go out, wear sunglasses, clothes that cover your arms and legs, and a hat with a wide brim. Put on sunscreen to protect any uncovered skin, and stay in the shade to avoid direct sunlight.

While you can’t completely prevent skin cancer, avoiding skin damage from UV radiation will go a long way.

If caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable. That’s why it’s important to schedule an appointment as soon as you notice a mole or spot that exhibits any changes that are signs of skin cancer.

Skin cancer that is given time to grow can be more difficult to treat. Because skin cancer is less visible on dark skin, it may not be detected until later. Skin cancer screenings at Premier Dermatology can help catch skin cancer before it has a chance to spread.