Essential elements of
a comprehensive skin check
1
Risks of skin cancer discussion
Includes but not limited to: age, skin type, sun behaviour, previous skin cancer history and other specific medical conditions
Examples: a 60 year old with fair skin and a long history of sunbaking would have much higher risks than a 20 year old with darker skin who has used sun-screen since childhood.
3
Findings discussion
Full understanding of diagnoses and management plan are essential. Good communication is key in doctors and patients satisfaction.
2
Skin examination
Under good lighting, particularly with a dermatoscope. Dermatoscopes are similar to magnifying glasses with a special lighting setup. Dermatoscopy is essential in the current standard of skin examination.
4
Record keeping & follow-ups
Concerning lesions need to be photographed and stored electronically for future reference. Having a good record of skin lesions can facilitate prompt follow-ups between clinicians and patients.
Who needs Skin Cancer Check?
High risk individuals. If one or more of the followings applied to you, then you might need regular skin checks
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Have fair skin
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Have red/ginger, blonde hairs
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Had many freckles in your teen/early adult years
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Had more than five severe sun burns
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Work out doors for a living
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Had sunbath specifically for tanning
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Used tanning bed / solarium
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Have family member diagnosed with melanoma
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Have personal history of skin cancers
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Or simply because you are concerned about new skin lesions. Being anxious about such things is normal and it is justified to seek help from a qualified doctor.
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