Skin Cancer Detection
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting millions of people every year—yet it’s also one of the most treatable when caught early. Whether caused by years of sun exposure or the abnormal growth of skin cells in areas rarely exposed to sunlight, skin cancer can appear anywhere on the body and often develops long before symptoms are noticeable.
If you’ve discovered a new spot, mole, or changing lesion, or you’re simply unsure what you’re seeing on your skin, now is the time to get answers. Our board-certified dermatology team at Wasatch Dermatology in Ogden, UT, provides thorough, expert skin cancer screenings designed to detect concerns early and give you peace of mind. Schedule your evaluation today by calling (801) 475-5210 and take the most important step in protecting your skin health.
Causes Of Skin Cancer
Every day, skin cells die and new ones form to replace them in a process controlled by DNA. Skin cancer can form when this process does not work properly because of damage to DNA. New cells may form when they are not needed, or older cells may not die, both of which can cause a growth of tissue known as a tumor. DNA damage is often a result of ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning lamps. In some cases, skin cancer affects areas of the skin that have not been exposed to the sun. Certain factors, such as fair skin, moles, a weakened immune system, heredity, and age, also increase the risk of skin cancer. If you worry you may have skin cancer, schedule a skin cancer screening with a dermatologist today.
Types Of Skin Cancer
There are three major types of skin cancer, and they affect different layers of the skin. They are named for the different types of skin cells that become cancerous.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell skin cancer occurs in the basal cell layer of the skin and is the most common type of skin cancer in people with fair skin. It commonly occurs on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face. It rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma occurs in the squamous cells and is the most common type of skin cancer in people with dark skin, who typically get it in places, such as the legs or feet, that have not been exposed to the sun. In people with fair skin, it usually occurs in sun-exposed areas such as on the face, head, ears, and neck. Squamous cell skin cancer can spread to other parts of the body.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most aggressive type of cancer and the most likely to spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma occurs in the melanocyte (pigment) cells of the skin and can form on any part of the body, regardless of past sun exposure.
Risk & Who Should Be Screened
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but certain factors increase your risk and make regular skin exams especially important. Understanding these risks helps you stay proactive about early detection and long-term skin health.
You may benefit from more frequent skin cancer screenings if you have:
- A history of significant sun exposure or frequent use of tanning beds
- Fair skin, light eyes, or light hair, which offer less natural UV protection
- A personal or family history of skin cancer, including melanoma
- Multiple moles or atypical (irregular) moles, especially those that change over time
- A weakened immune system, whether due to medications, transplants, or medical conditions
- Older age, which increases cumulative sun damage
- Certain genetic conditions that predispose you to skin cancer
Even if you don’t have known risk factors, a dermatologist should evaluate any new, changing, or unusual spot on your skin. At Wasatch Dermatology, our team helps you understand your personal risk and ensures you receive the right level of care to protect your skin now and in the future.
Symptoms Of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is often identified as a new or changed growth on the skin of the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms, hands or legs. Although these are common areas for skin-cancer growths to form, they can occur anywhere, and manifest themselves as the following:
- Pearly or waxy bump
- Flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
- Firm, red nodule
- Crusted, flat lesion
- Large brown spot with darker speckles
- Shiny, firm bumps
A mole that changes shape or color can also indicate skin cancer. The only way to determine if you have skin cancer is to schedule a skin cancer screening. Call Wasatch Dermatology today to learn more.
Why Early Detection Matters
Catching skin cancer early is the most powerful way to protect your health. When diagnosed at an early stage, most skin cancers are highly treatable, require less extensive procedures, and have excellent long-term outcomes. In fact, the five-year survival rate for melanoma is about 99 percent when found early, and basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are almost always curable when treated before they grow deeper.
Early detection also helps prevent more complex surgeries. A small, superficial lesion may be removed quickly and easily, while a delayed diagnosis can require more advanced procedures, larger excisions, or reconstruction. Identifying suspicious spots early reduces scarring, preserves healthy tissue, and gives you the greatest chance for a simple, stress-free recovery.
At Wasatch Dermatology, early detection is the foundation of our full skin cancer care pathway. Our team provides comprehensive skin exams, expert diagnoses, and advanced treatments—including Mohs micrographic surgery when needed—all designed to catch problems early and treat them with precision. Your skin health matters, and early detection ensures you get the best possible outcome with the least amount of intervention.
Diagnosis Of Skin Cancer
To diagnose skin cancer, a doctor perfoms a skin cancer screening to review all symptoms, and checks the skin for any unusual growths or abnormal patches of skin. If skin cancer is suspected, a biopsy is performed on the growth or area of skin in question. Once the results of the biopsy are reviewed, the type of cancer can be determined, and a treatment plan created. Those who experience any skin changes, or have changes to existing moles or birthmarks, should see a doctor as soon as possible; early detection is key in successfully treating skin cancer.
Treatment For Skin Cancer
Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor. Most options involve removing the entire growth and are effective forms of treatment. Removal procedures are usually simple and require only a local anesthetic in an outpatient setting. Some of the treatment options for skin cancer include the following:
- Freezing
- Excision
- Laser therapy
- Mohs surgery
Depending on the stage and severity of the skin cancer, in addition to removal of the growth, chemotherapy and radiation may be recommended.
Prevention Of Skin Cancer
Although not every case of skin cancer can be prevented, the best way to avoid it is to protect skin from the sun. Recommendations for preventing skin cancer include the following:
- Limit exposure to the skin, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15
- Wear a hat in the sun
- Wear long sleeves and long pants
- Avoid tanning beds and salons
Performing routine self-exams to spot skin changes and seeing a dermatologist for a full-body skin cancer screening on a regular basis are also recommended.
Schedule Your Early Skin Cancer Screening in Ogden, UT
Your skin is the largest organ of your body and one of the most visible indicators of your overall health. When it comes to skin cancer, early detection makes all the difference. A quick, comprehensive exam can provide clarity, peace of mind, and, when needed, the opportunity to treat concerns before they become more serious.
At Wasatch Dermatology in Ogden, UT, you’re never left to navigate these worries alone. Our board-certified dermatologists combine experience, advanced diagnostic tools, and compassionate care to help you stay one step ahead. Our center is conveniently located in Ogden, Utah, and we serve the surrounding areas of South Ogden, Harrisville, West Haven, Roy, Clinton, Layton, Clearfield, and Weber County, UT. Whether you’ve noticed a new spot or simply want to be proactive, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Schedule your skin cancer screening today by calling (801) 475-5210 and take an important step toward protecting your health, confidence, and future.
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