What causes skin cancer?

There are three main types of skin cancer:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Melanoma

While all three are correlated to sun exposure, they differ in the type of exposure and your skin type. For instance, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are linked to prolonged exposure to the sun over many years, while melanoma is associated with an intense sunburn.

Other causes of skin cancer are genetics, UV exposure from other sources than the sun, such as tanning beds, and certain diseases.

What are the signs of skin cancer?

Signs and symptoms of skin cancer include:

• New moles
• Changes in a mole’s size or shape
• Sores or lesions that itch, bleed, or won’t go away
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Red, raised, scaly patch of skin
• Open, oozy sores that won’t heal
• Wart-like growth

If your moles itch, bleed, or have irregular borders, it could be a sign of skin cancer. At Hillside Medical Clinic, your provider removes suspicious blemishes and moles to analyze them in the lab.

Why do I need regular skin checks?

A regular skin check at Hillside Medical Clinic helps you inspect places on your body that are hard to see on your own. Your provider closely examines every inch of your body from head to toe, including your face, neck, abdomen, back, legs, toes, nail beds, hands, palms, soles of feet, and genitals.

When should a mole be removed?

The practitioners at Hillside Medical Clinic observe the “ABCDE” guideline when performing your mole checks:

• Asymmetry – one half does not mirror or match the other half
• Border – hard-to-define or irregular border
• Color – should be one color, not a mix
• Diameter – should be smaller than a pencil eraser
• Evolving – should not be changing size, shape, or color

Your provider analyzes every one of your moles and lesions using the ABCDE method. Talk to them about any moles that concern you or problems with your skin. Problem moles are immediately removed right on the spot. It’s a quick procedure, and the team at Hillside Medical Clinic numbs the area to make you comfortable.

Don’t neglect your annual skin check. It’s a critical part of preventive care. Call Hillside Medical Clinic to book an appointment or use the online scheduler.