The Importance of Skin Examinations: Who Needs Them and Current Guidelines
By: Amber Robbins, MD, FAAD
Skin is the body's largest organ, serving as a protective barrier against external threats and reflecting your overall health. Skin examinations by board-certified dermatologists can identify issues like skin cancer in early or even precancerous stages. In this article, we'll explore who needs a skin examination and delve into the current guidelines to help you prioritize your skin health.
Guidelines
You may be surprised to know that the organization that issues guidelines for cancer screening, the United States Preventative Services Task Force, does not recommend skin screening for asymptomatic adults and adolescents. However, there are many groups of patients that do benefit from screening.
Individuals with a History of Skin Cancer:
People who have previously been diagnosed with skin cancer are at a higher risk of developing new lesions. Regular skin examinations are vital for early detection and prompt treatment, which in turn leads to better outcomes. Guidelines for skin exams vary depending on individual risk factors, but annual exams, at least, are advised for people who have had any skin cancer in the last 10 years.
Those with a Family History of Skin Cancer:
Genetics can play a significant role in the development of skin cancer. If you have close relatives who have been diagnosed with melanoma or other types of skin cancer, it's essential to be proactive about your skin health. Dermatologists generally advise a baseline skin exam in your 20s, or whenever you find out a first-degree family member has been diagnosed with skin cancer. At your first exam your doctor will provide individualized advice on your overall risk and recommend a schedule for future exams.
Fair-Skinned Individuals and People on Immunosuppression:
People with fair skin are more susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation. If you have fair skin, light hair, and light eyes, or sunburn or freckle easily, you should be particularly vigilant about protecting your skin from the sun. Being on immunosuppressive medications for organ transplant or autoimmune disease also increases skin cancer risk. People with these risk factors should consider a baseline skin exam with a dermatologist to get their personal risk assessment and advice on how often they should get future skin exams.
Individuals with Numerous Moles or Atypical Moles:
Having a higher number of moles increases your risk of developing skin cancer. Additionally, atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, can be markers of risk for melanoma. Regular skin examinations are crucial for individuals with numerous moles or those with moles exhibiting irregular features.
People Over the Age of 50:
As we age, our skin undergoes various changes, and the risk of developing skin cancer increases. Individuals over the age of 50 should incorporate regular self-skin examinations into their healthcare routine, helping to detect and address any potential skin issues promptly. If any skin lesions are changing, bleeding, or not healing in a normal way, you should schedule a skin examination to have the lesions evaluated.
Current Guidelines for Skin Examinations:
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) provides guidelines for skin examinations, emphasizing the importance of early detection and prevention. The key recommendations include:
Self-Examinations: Everyone should perform regular self-examinations to become familiar with their skin and identify any changes or abnormalities.
Professional Skin Examinations: Schedule regular skin examinations with a dermatologist if you fall into high-risk categories or notice any concerning changes on your skin.
Sun Protection: Everyone should practice sun protection, including wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Be sure to get enough Vitamin D through diet or supplementation. Don’t rely on the sun, which is a cancer-causing way to get a vitamin!
Awareness and Education: Be aware of the signs of skin cancer, such as changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of moles, and seek professional evaluation if you notice anything unusual.
In conclusion, skin examinations are a crucial aspect of overall healthcare, helping to identify and address potential skin issues early on. By following current guidelines and being proactive about your skin health, you can reduce the risk of skin cancer and ensure that your skin remains healthy and vibrant for years to come. If you fall in any of the above categories, schedule your skin examination and take a proactive step towards a healthier future.