Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but also one of the most preventable. Learning what it looks like, how it’s treated, and when to act can help protect you and your loved ones.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the skin’s outer layers. The majority of cases are caused by excessive UV radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. Excessive UV radiation damages DNA which can lead to mutations.
There are several types of skin cancer:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): typically appears as a small, shiny bump or a pinkish patch that doesn’t go away. It grows slowly and rarely spreads, but can cause disfigurement if not treated promptly
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): may present as a firm red bump, a scaly patch, or a sore that crusts or bleeds. It has a higher risk of spreading than BCC and requires timely intervention
- Melanoma: the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It often appears as an irregular, multicolored mole or dark lesion and can spread quickly to internal organs. Early detection is critical. When caught in its early stages, melanoma has a 99% five-year survival rate
How Is It Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a clinical skin exam, often during a routine visit with your primary care provider or dermatologist. Any mole or lesion that looks abnormal in size, color, shape, or texture may be flagged for further investigation.
- Dermatoscopic Evaluation: A handheld magnifier (dermatoscope) allows dermatologists to see pigment patterns and blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface.
- Biopsy: If a lesion appears suspicious, a sample of skin is removed under local anesthesia and sent to a lab to determine whether it’s cancerous, and if so, which type and how advanced it is.
- Staging: For more advanced cases, additional imaging or testing may be required to check for spread (metastasis).
How Primary Care and Dermatology Work Together
Our Primary Care Providers play a key role in early detection and preventive education. They can:
- Perform full-body skin checks or examine specific concerns during your annual physical
- Counsel patients on sun protection and the importance of regular monitoring, especially for those with high-risk factors
- Refer you promptly to a board-certified dermatologist for evaluation of concerning spots
Our Dermatology team provides specialized care to:
- Diagnose and treat all types of skin cancer, using advanced diagnostic tools and evidence-based protocols
- Perform surgical and non-surgical treatments customized to your needs
- Create long-term monitoring plans for patients with a history of skin cancer
- Educate patients on skin changes to watch for and how to perform self-exams effectively
Together, Primary Care and Dermatology offer a seamless and comprehensive approach to skin health under one roof.
Prevention Tips That Make a Difference
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors or after swimming/sweating
- Avoid tanning beds, which emit concentrated UV radiation
- Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses
- Schedule yearly skin exams, especially if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- Do monthly skin self-exams to look for changes in moles, spots, or growths
Men & Skin Cancer: Why Awareness Matters More Than Ever
Did you know that men are significantly more likely than women to be diagnosed with, and die from, skin cancer? According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, by age 65, men are twice as likely to develop melanoma. By age 80, the risk increases to triple that of women.
Why the higher risk?
- Lower rates of sunscreen use and sun protection habits
- More cumulative UV exposure from outdoor work and hobbies
- Thinner skin on the scalp, ears, and neck, which are often exposed and less protected
- Delayed doctor visits, meaning skin changes may go unchecked for longer
How we help at Bethany Medical Clinic:
- Our providers offer head-to-toe skin checks, including hard-to-see areas like the scalp, back, and behind the ears
- We encourage skin cancer screenings for men of all skin tones, particularly those with a family history or a history of sunburns
- Our dermatology and primary care teams work together to identify, diagnose, and treat suspicious lesions early, when they’re most treatable
This Men’s Health Month, we’re encouraging all men to make their skin health a priority. A quick visit could save your life.
Schedule Your Skin Check Today
At Bethany Medical Clinic, we believe that prevention and early detection are your best defenses. Our integrated care model connects you with both primary care physicians and board-certified dermatologists to make your skin health a priority.
Whether it’s time for your annual skin screening or you’ve noticed something concerning, we’re here to help you take the next step.