Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer affects adults and children and can be easily screened through a physical exam or test. Ask your Franciscan Health provider about getting screened and taking other preventative measures.

Skin cancer affects adults and children and can be easily screened through a physical exam or test. Ask your Franciscan Health provider about getting screened and taking other preventative measures.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and may be screened for through a physical exam or test by your doctor or healthcare provider. You primary care provider will typically check your skin for abnormalities during your annual physical exam. A dermatologist can also look at a spot on your skin or examine you for skin cancer. If your primary care provider finds something that needs further evaluation, they might refer you to a dermatologist for follow-up.

The importance of a skin cancer screening

Skin cancer can occur on almost any area of the body, including areas that aren’t exposed to the sun (soles of your feet, palms of your hands and fingernail beds), and frequently appears as moles, scaly patches, open sores or raised bumps. Skin cancer affects people of all ages, including children and adolescents; when treated early, it can often be cured.

Who is at risk for skin cancer?

People who have a family history of skin cancer, sunburn easily or have freckles, light skin or blue eyes are at greater risk for skin cancer.

You may take preventative measures by using broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) year-round, avoiding tanning beds and sun exposure during the middle of the day as well as wearing sun-protective clothing and sunglasses.