By doing a simple skin self-exam  every month, you can improve your chances of finding a melanoma early. In addition to doing routine skin self-exams, you should have your skin checked regularly by a physician.

Skin cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin. Melanoma accounts for approximately 1% of all skin cancers but unfortunately accounts for the majority of skin cancer related deaths. In 2019, melanoma is expected to take the lives of 7,230 Americans.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) accounts for approximately 20% of all skin cancers. It usually occurs in middle-aged and elderly people, especially those who are fair-skinned. It is more common in people who have regular prolonged sun exposure.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) accounts for over 75% of all skin cancers. It usually occurs in middle-aged and elderly people, especially those who are fair-skinned. It is more common in people who have regular prolonged sun exposure.

Skin cancer is an extremely common condition. There are three main types of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.

Examination of the skin for suspicious moles is an important means of achieving early detection for skin cancer and other conditions.

Sun exposure is proven to cause skin cancer and precancers of the skin. Find out how to protect you and your family through sunscreens, protective clothing, and wise outdoor habits.

After your biopsy, it’s important to follow careful instruction to keep infections away. Learn more about restricted activities and proper appearance of biopsy sites.