The Importance of Getting Suspicious-Looking Moles Checked

Following the news that Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of skin cancer, doctors at the Health Suite in Leicester have stressed how important it is to get tested if you have any concerns about your skin or moles.

Dr Asiya Maula said, “Skin cancer, one of the most prevalent forms of cancer globally, is a health concern that demands our attention. The importance of getting any suspicious-looking moles reviewed can not be understated”

Understanding Skin Cancer

Skin cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, and it can manifest in various forms, the most common being basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer. However, it’s crucial to understand that skin cancer can affect anyone, not just those who spend a lot of time in the sun.

Early Detection is Key

The most compelling reason to get tested for skin cancer is the power of early detection. When caught early, most skin cancers are highly treatable. Regular screenings can identify suspicious moles or skin changes early on, leading to quicker treatment and better outcomes. In particular, melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, has a high cure rate when detected and treated early.

Know Your Skin

Regular skin self-exams can play a crucial role in early detection. Familiarise yourself with your skin’s pattern of moles, freckles, and other marks to better recognise any changes. Look for new growths, sores that don’t heal, or changes in the size, shape, or colour of existing moles. These could be early signs of skin cancer.

Professional Screenings

While self-exams are important, they are no substitute for a professional screening by a dermatologist. A dermatologist can provide a thorough skin examination and identify any signs of cancer that you might miss. They can also recommend a screening schedule based on your personal risk factors, such as skin type, history of sunburns, family history of skin cancer, and overall health.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Apart from regular screenings, taking preventive measures is key. This includes using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours, and steering clear of tanning beds. Remember, UV radiation can penetrate clouds and glass, so protection is essential even on cloudy days or while indoors near windows.

The Health Suite in Leicester offers a “Trucheck Intelli” test, which can help avoid late cancer detection, which can lead to intensive and expensive treatments. Finding cancer early, before you have symptoms, can significantly improve your chances of survival.

Find out more about Trucheck Intelli and cancer tests here.