The presence of certain moles or sore spots on the skin may cause significant concern, particularly if they have never been examined by a dermatologist. Such conditions may prompt individuals to consider getting a skin cancer check in Singapore. Here is a guide to what to expect during a skin cancer screening, along with the procedure and benefits, to help you decide whether to have one.
What is Skin Cancer Screening?
Skin cancer screening is a type of examination in which a dermatologist thoroughly examines your skin for signs of skin cancer or precancerous conditions. By checking your skin from head to toe, a dermatologist for skin cancer screening can detect any signs of skin cancer and start a suitable treatment as soon as possible. Some of the conditions that may be identified through a screening include:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): One of the most common types of skin cancer cells that may appear as a crusted nodule.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Another common type of skin cancer that may appear as a red patch or a raised nodule.
- Melanoma: A more aggressive type of skin cancer, melanoma may develop from existing or new moles. Their symptoms may appear as irregularly shaped lesions in different colours.
What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening
When you book a skin cancer screening in Singapore, your dermatologist will first ask about any spots that cause concern. They may also ask about your family health history and whether you have prolonged sun exposure. Do let them know if you are taking any medications as well.
Next, the dermatologist will conduct a physical examination of every part of your body for any abnormal spots that may be possible signs of skin cancer. This examination is generally painless, and you will typically be asked to change into a gown or to expose the areas to be checked. Your dermatologist may also use a dermatoscope, a magnifying tool, to examine any concerning spots more closely.
After the screening, the dermatologist may recommend several steps based on your skin condition. If you have many moles, they may need to be photographed as a visual record to track their changes over time. If your dermatologist finds spots that are suspected to be pre-cancerous, they may recommend immediate treatments, such as freezing with liquid nitrogen.
If further examination of certain spots is needed, your dermatologist may advise you to get a biopsy. This procedure involves numbing the area, obtaining a sample from the spot, and sending it to the laboratory for further examination. You may typically get your biopsy results within a week.
How Long Does Skin Cancer Screening Take?
A skin cancer screening in Singapore typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes. However, if you have many spots or lesions, the screening may take longer to ensure that all areas are photographed.
Benefits of Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer screening may be a line of defense against skin cancer, with benefits such as:
May Help Provide Early Detection
Detecting early signs of skin cancer may significantly increase the chances of a successful treatment. This is especially important for initial signs that may be unnoticeable without a professional examination, such as smaller spots or growths in concealed areas. Early detection is particularly important for preventing the spread of melanoma.
May Help Monitor Skin Lesions
Skin lesions may grow or change over time. Informing your dermatologist about any skin lesions you notice is important, as it helps them pay closer attention to these areas and detect whether they become malignant, allowing early treatment when they are more treatable.
May Help Plan a More Effective Treatment
If skin cancer is detected during screening, a dermatologist can plan treatment to manage it, such as surgery, topical treatments, or other interventions. If the spots are pre-cancerous, they may implement preventive strategies, such as lifestyle changes, to halt their progression.
When Should You Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening in Singapore?
For most people, getting an annual skin cancer check is considered an effective preventive measure, especially for individuals whose skin burns easily in the sun. For high-risk individuals, such as those who have a personal or family history of skin cancer or multiple dysplastic nevi, the dermatologist may recommend more frequent skin cancer screenings every 3 to 6 months. Individuals with a compromised immune system, many moles or freckling, or who often use tanning beds are also considered high-risk and should get more frequent screenings.
In addition to regular skin cancer screenings by a dermatologist, you may also benefit from performing self-examinations every 1-2 months. Take note of any new appearances or changes in existing skin lesions, and inform your dermatologist of further checks as soon as possible.
Book a Skin Cancer Screening in Singapore
The goal of skin cancer screening is to detect any skin abnormalities that may require further evaluation and appropriate treatment. Early detection of skin cancer through regular screenings may increase the chance of reducing its morbidity.
At Stratum Skin and Surgery, we aim to give you peace of mind and help provide a proper diagnosis of your skin condition. Book a screening session with our team of experienced dermatologists and get a thorough evaluation today!