The first step in identifying skin cancer is to get a self-examination. You can use a hand-held mirror or ask a friend to look at your skin. After spotting an abnormality, take a photo. You can also place a tape measure or ruler next to the area to determine its size and change. These photos can be shared with your doctor. If you notice any difference, you should get it checked out.
Symptoms And Signs Of Skin Cancer
There are several types of skin cancer. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, which appears as a firm red nodule, scaly growth, or sore that does not heal. If caught in its early stages, squamous cell cancer is curable. However, it must be noted that other forms of cancer are also warning signs that a doctor should check out.
According to most dermatologists and skin cancer check Memphis, the first symptom of skin cancer is a rash. The rash may look like a mosquito bite. If it persists, you may have a mole. If it grows in an inflamed area, you should visit a doctor. If the mole grows into lesions, it may be a sign of melanoma. The most common cause of skin cancer is exposure to UV rays from the sun. So the first thing you should do is to keep your skin away from the sun. While we all know about the importance of sunscreens for the face and body, we should not forget about the protection of our eyes. Exposure to UV radiation also increases the risk of eyelid cancer development, so you need to make sure your eyes are safe. Here is when polarized lenses come into play by reducing light and offering glare protection.
The next symptom of skin cancer is a change in the skin. You should visit a dermatologist if you notice a mole or spot that hasn’t changed in a month. A dermatologist can help you identify the type of skin cancer and the best course of treatment.
Cost Of Skin Cancer Treatment
If your cancer is superficial, you may be able to avoid costly surgery by using a topical medication. Topical treatments can be used to treat squamous or superficial basal cell carcinoma and growths on your face that have not yet become cancer. These treatments vary in price and can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand. Depending on your cancer type, you may need as many as fourteen treatments.
The costs of skin cancer treatment have increased over the past decade, largely because of the rising prevalence of the disease. The rise in expenses can be attributed to higher per-person costs and more people affected by the disease. In the United States, more than four million adults were treated for skin cancer in 2011, and the average cost of treatment rose by $1,044 per patient. Nevertheless, this increase does not mean that the cancer rates are getting lower – if anything, they are higher. Although the costs of skin cancer treatments vary greatly, the costs are primarily determined by the type of cancer and the stage it has reached.
Screening Tests For Skin Cancer
In addition to skin cancer diagnosis, screening for melanoma may lead to more diagnostic procedures and potentially harmful side effects. While early detection is essential for early treatment, screening can produce false-positive results, causing anxiety and further testing. In addition, the biopsy itself can cause scarring and infection. It is, therefore, important to discuss your risk for skin cancer with your doctor. Screening tests are not recommended for everyone, but those at high risk of melanoma should schedule them. Some types of skin cancer can be detected by simple physical examination. For example, most melanomas on the skin are visible to the naked eye. Melanomas, however, grow for many years under the skin’s surface without reaching the deeper layers. Early detection makes it easier to treat the disease and extend life.
