As summer heats up in New York City, residents and visitors alike are soaking up the sun at beaches and on rooftops, as well as on vacations. However, increased sun exposure brings heightened awareness of the risk associated with excessive sun: skin cancer. This article aims to underscore the critical importance of skin cancer screenings, particularly in Manhattan during the sizzling summer months.
Dr. Jessica Krant, a leading NYC dermatologist at Art of Dermatology at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, provides essential insights into preventive measures, early signs of skin cancer, and the pivotal role of screenings in early detection.
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States; about one out of five Americans will be affected at some point in their lives. There are several types of skin cancer including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma is the most severe but least common type. Skin cancer is caused by ultraviolet light (UV light) from the sun or tanning beds, among other risk factors including genetics. UV light damages the DNA in the skin cells and causes rapid growth of abnormal skin cells. If left untreated, the cancerous cells can spread to deeper layers of the skin and eventually throughout the body as metastases, which is why regular skin cancer screenings should be an essential part of everyone’s healthcare routine. And during the summer when sun exposure is at its peak and everyone is looking more at their own skin, it’s also the easiest time to get a screening, because fewer clothes to remove!
Early Signs of Skin Cancer
Early signs of skin cancer to look out for include:
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of moles
- New growths or spots on the skin of any color
- Asymmetrical or irregularly bordered moles
- Irregularly colored moles or other skin spots
- Moles larger than 6mm in diameter
If any concerning areas are identified during a screening, Dr. Krant may recommend a biopsy for further analysis.
Preventive Measures Against Skin Cancer
Prevention is important in the fight against skin cancer. You can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer with the following preventive measures:
- Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
- Wearing protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses
- Avoiding the sun, especially during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm)
- Avoiding tanning beds and artificial tanning lamps
Despite following these recommendations, skin cancer can still develop, which makes skin checks an especially reliable prevention strategy.
The Preventive Role of Skin Cancer Screenings
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessica Krant is a leading provider of aesthetic and medical dermatology in Manhattan. If you have concerns about your skin or simply want a skin check as a precaution, you are encouraged to schedule a screening or skin check today. Regular visits to a dermatologist can ensure that any potential skin cancers are caught and treated early. A dermatologist can also assess areas that are not easily visible, like the back and scalp and between the toes. These screenings are particularly important for individuals with risk factors such as fair skin, numerous moles, a family history of skin cancer, or a history of severe sunburns.
What to Expect During Your Skin Cancer Screening
During a skin cancer screening, Dr. Krant performs a thorough examination of the entire body, looking for any suspicious lesions or changes in existing moles. If she sees a concerning spot, she may take note about its size and ask that you come back later to check it. Advanced technologies like dermatoscopes, which allow for deeper examination of skin layers, may be employed to ensure a comprehensive assessment. A biopsy or sample of the skin spot or mole may be taken to accurately determine whether it is cancer.
Schedule a Consultation
During the hot summer months, it is more important than ever to be vigilant about protecting your skin from the sun. Schedule your skin cancer screening at Art of Dermatology at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York by calling our office or filling out an online contact form.
Jessica Krant, M.D., MPH, is a board-certified dermatologist with specialized experience in cosmetic, laser, surgical, and medical dermatology, but above all, Dr. Krant is most proud to be a caring, comprehensive physician who takes the time to listen and send her patients home with a smile.
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