The numbers of skin cancers diagnosed in the United States each year is rising dramatically. If you haven't already, please read our general information about skin cancer.

As with many cancers, early diagnosis is the best way to minimize the risk from skin cancer. We recommend that you see a medical professional for a total body skin examination yearly. If you have had a previous skin cancer or many pre-cancers, you might do better with exams every six months.

Even with frequent exams, a skin cancer can start and grow dangerously between exams. That is why Dermatology Associates recommends that you perform a skin self examination once a month.

• Notice if you have any new skin lesions.
• Notice if any existing skin lesions have changed. Rapidly changing lesions (any noticeable change over the course of one month) should be checked by a medical professional.

It is best to start your self examinations after seeing your Dermatology Associates provider. We can reassure you about any normal lesions on your skin and give you some additional tips regarding your self exams.

The American Academy of Dermatology Website shows How to Perform a Self-Examination.