With more than 63,000 new cases every year in the United States, skin cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers today. While often mistaken for a mole or beauty mark, this abnormal growth of cells is extremely detrimental to the body, and in some cases, can lead to death. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), more than one million people in the U.S. are living with melanoma – the most serious form of skin cancer.
Fortunately, there are various ways to detect skin cancer early on to effectively treat the disease.
At O Medical and Aesthetics, Dr. Onumah offers skin cancer exams in Princeton, NJ. Able to diagnose men and women of all skin types, Dr. Onumah is a highly trained medical and cosmetic Hair Transplant Surgeon and Skin Expert with extensive experience in analyzing skin cancer risk factors and performing skin cancer exams.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer affects men and women of all ages and all skin tones. The disease develops in areas of the body most regularly exposed to the sun such as the face, lips, ears, hands, arms, neck, and scalp. However, those with darker complexions often develop skin cancer on the soles of the feet or palms of the hands.
There are various types of skin cancer, but the most common ones include:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
Melanoma can develop on any part of the body, even without direct sun exposure.
Who Are the Best Candidates for Skin Cancer Exams?
People with all skin types should regularly undergo skin cancer exams. Professionals suggest that adults between the ages of 20 and 40 should get a skin cancer exam every three years, and those above the age of 40 should get an exam once a year.
Those at higher risk, such as people with a family history of skin cancer, should undertake exams on a more regular basis. Additionally, if you notice a change in an existing mole or have new marks or bumps on your skin, a cancer screening is essential.
During your skin cancer exam in Dr. Onumah’s New Jersey dermatology office, she will visually check your skin for abnormal-looking moles and other skin markings. If they are unusual in texture, color, size, or shape, she will perform a biopsy to establish whether you may have cancer. Those who detect cancer early on have a much higher success rate of beating the disease.
Why Choose Skin Cancer Exams in NJ from Dr. Onumah
Passionate about her patients, Dr. Onumah is dedicated to helping prevent the spread of disease wherever possible. Performed by either her or a member of her team whom she has personally trained, Dr. Onumah performs full skin cancer exams in Princeton, NJ. If she suspects skin cancer, she will perform a biopsy to confirm whether you may have skin cancer.
Trained in some of the most prestigious universities in the United States, Dr. Onumah has decades of experience, specifically in facial anatomy and the skin. Dedicated to treating both men and women of all skin tones, Dr. Onumah knows better than anyone that skin cancer does not discriminate.
Dr. Onumah and her team at O Medical and Aesthetics have all the expertise needed to not only perform skin cancer exams but also provide you with helpful tips and guidance on how to care for your skin.
FAQ
Here are five of the most frequently asked questions about skin cancer exams:
What does the onset of skin cancer look like?
The onset of skin cancer looks different depending on the type of cancer you have. Flat red patches or rough surfaces can be a sign of squamous cell carcinomas. Changes in already existing moles and birthmarks can also be telltale signs of skin cancer.
Who is at risk of getting skin cancer?
Cancer is most common in those who are regularly exposed to the sun. Other skin cancer risk factors include:
- Fair skin
- High altitude or high UV climates
- Precancerous skin lesions
- A family or personal history of skin cancer
- A weak immune system
- Exposure to certain substances or radiation
At what age should you be screened for skin cancer?
You should be screened for cancer from the age of 20 onwards. However, if you experience any abnormal skin changes before this age, make your parents or legal guardian aware of your symptoms in order to seek further medical advice.
How do you protect yourself from skin cancer?
To protect yourself from skin cancer, you should:
- Wear sunblock even on days when it is not sunny
- Avoid sun exposure during the middle of the day
- Perform regular skin checks
- Avoid tanning beds
- Check if your medication is sun-sensitizing
Are there any risks associated with skin cancer exams?
There are no risks associated with skin cancer exams. For those who require a biopsy, you may experience a small amount of bleeding and discomfort. It is important to always follow your dermatologist’s aftercare advice.
Dr. Onumah is a Hair Transplant Surgeon and Skin Expert in New Jersey and, along with her trained team, offers skin cancer exams. Working with her trained colleagues, she accurately diagnoses and treats a variety of skin problems for patients in NJ.
Need more information on skin cancer exams in NJ? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Onumah today or phone us at 609-250-7198.