Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States — but it’s also one of the most treatable when detected early. Regular skin checks are a powerful way to catch changes before they become serious, potentially saving your health, appearance, and even your life. Texas Surgical Dermatology, led by Dr. Tri H. Nguyen who is a Mohs fellowship-trained specialist, provides skin cancer screenings to patients in Houston, Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, Texas, and surrounding locations.
Why Skin Checks Matter
Early detection of skin cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. For example:
– Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are highly treatable when caught early.
– Melanoma, while more aggressive, has a 99% survival rate when detected at its earliest stage.
Routine exams increase the likelihood of spotting these cancers before they spread or require more invasive treatment.
What to Look For
Follow the ABCDE rule for identifying suspicious moles or lesions:
– Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
– Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges
– Color: Varies from one area to another
– Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser
– Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or color
Also watch for:
– Non-healing sores
– New or changing growths
– Red, scaly patches or bumps
Who Needs Regular Skin Checks?
– Fair-skinned individuals or those with a history of sunburn
– People with a personal or family history of skin cancer
– Individuals with many moles or atypical (dysplastic) nevi
– Anyone who uses tanning beds or has high sun exposure
Your dermatologist can recommend how often to be checked — typically once a year, or more often if you’re at higher risk.
Professional vs. Self-Skin Exams
– Self-checks should be done monthly using mirrors and good lighting
– Professional exams involve a full-body skin check by a dermatologist, including areas you can’t see
Combining both methods ensures nothing is missed.
Final Thoughts
Skin checks are simple, fast, and lifesaving. By making them a regular part of your health routine, you can stay ahead of potential skin cancers and ensure the best possible outcomes. Prevention and early detection are your best defense.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT OUR BOARD CERTIFIED IN DERMATOLOGISTS AT TEXAS SURGICAL DERMATOLOGY IN SPRING, TX
For more information on procedures and treatments offered at Texas Surgical Dermatology PA please call 832.663.6566 or click here to contact our dermatologists. Helping patients in Houston, The Woodlands, Spring, Katy and other surrounding areas of Texas.
