How to Spot Skin Cancer Early: A Guide to Mole Checks and Skin Cancer Prevention in Birmingham
Why Skin Cancer Detection Matters
Skin cancer is one of the most common yet preventable types of cancer. With rising sun exposure and the popularity of tanning, it’s crucial to understand what skin cancer looks like, how to detect it early, and the steps you can take to protect yourself. Early detection can save lives, and at Victoria House Clinic in Sutton Coldfield, we offer comprehensive mole checks and removals led by Mr. George Filobbos, an expert in skin cancer detection.
What Causes Skin Cancer and How Can You Prevent It?
While skin cancer is most often caused by sun damage, there are several contributing factors that you should be aware of. Knowing the causes is essential for understanding how you can reduce your risk. Here are the main causes of skin cancer:
- Excessive Sun Exposure: The primary cause of skin cancer is UV radiation from the sun. Over time, the sun's rays can damage the DNA in your skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause skin cancer. This is especially true if you've had frequent sunburns or long-term exposure without protection.
- Tanning Beds: Artificial tanning devices emit UV radiation that’s just as harmful as the sun. Using these devices increases the risk of developing skin cancer, particularly melanoma.
- Fair Skin and Light Features: People with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes have less melanin, making them more vulnerable to UV damage and skin cancer.
- Family History: A family history of skin cancer increases your chances of developing it yourself, as certain genetic factors make some people more susceptible.
- Age and Gender: Older adults have accumulated UV damage over the years, raising their risk. Men are also generally more likely to develop skin cancer than women, although rates in women have been rising.
- Previous Skin Cancer or Precancerous Conditions: If you've had skin cancer in the past, you’re more likely to get it again. Conditions like actinic keratosis (pre-cancerous lesions) also elevate your risk.
How Can You Prevent Skin Cancer?
Prevention is key to lowering your risk of developing skin cancer. Here are some essential steps you can take:
- Practice Sun Safety: Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during peak UV hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves.
- Use Sunscreen Daily: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: These devices are dangerous and increase the risk of developing skin cancer, especially when used before the age of 30.
- Examine Your Skin Regularly: Self-examine your skin for any new moles, growths, or changes to existing moles. If you spot anything suspicious, don’t wait – consult a specialist immediately.
- Get Regular Skin Check-Ups with a Specialist: A skin cancer specialist in Birmingham like Mr. George Filobbos can provide expert evaluations that go beyond what a GP can offer. Regular check-ups are vital for catching skin cancer early.
- Monitor Family History: If skin cancer runs in your family, make sure to inform your healthcare provider so you can schedule more frequent skin checks.
What are the Different Types of Skin Cancer
While melanoma is often the most talked about, skin cancer comes in several forms, and it's essential to understand the differences of each type.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This is the most common type, typically appearing as a small, shiny, or pearly bump. It's rarely life-threatening but can spread locally and damage surrounding tissues.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Often presents as a red, scaly, or thickened patch. Sometimes it can present as an ulcer. It can spread if left untreated, so making early detection can be crucial.
Melanoma: The most dangerous form of skin cancer, often developing in existing moles or appearing as new spots on the skin. It can spread to other parts of the body, which is why early identification is critical.
What Does Skin Cancer Look Like? Signs to Watch For
Recognising the early signs of skin cancer can help you take action before the condition worsens. Skin cancer can appear in various forms, but the following signs are key indicators to watch for:
Asymmetry: One half of the mole differs from the other.
Borders: The edges of the mole are irregular, jagged, or blurred.
Colour: The mole has multiple colours, including shades of brown, black, red, or blue.
Diameter : A mole that is larger than 6mm in diameter (about the size of a pencil eraser).
Evolution: Any change in size, shape, or colour over time.
These changes are part of the ABCDEs of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s crucial to see a skin cancer specialist in Birmingham as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation.
How Do I Know If I Have Skin Cancer? Early Detection is Key
If you’ve noticed changes in your skin, it’s natural to be concerned. While not all changes indicate cancer, it’s always better to be cautious and seek professional advice. At Victoria House Clinic, we offer a Full Body Mole Check to help you stay on top of your skin health.
When you visit Mr. George Filobbos, our skin cancer specialist, he will perform a detailed skin check, assessing your moles for any irregularities. If any moles are found to be suspicious, we can remove them and send them for histology testing, ensuring that you receive the most accurate diagnosis possible.
Are Moles Skin Cancer? How to Tell the Difference
It’s essential to know that not every mole is cancerous. Most moles are benign, but some can be a sign of skin cancer. Here’s how to distinguish between a harmless mole and one that might require attention:
New Moles: Any new moles that appear after the age of 25 should be examined by a specialist.
Changes in Existing Moles: Existing moles that grow, change shape, or colour could be a sign of skin cancer.
Itchy or Bleeding Moles: Moles that become itchy, crusty, or bleed should be checked as soon as possible.
By booking a mole check in Birmingham with Mr. George Filobbos, you’re not only getting an expert evaluation of your moles, but you’re also receiving full care should any suspicious moles need to be removed for further testing.
What is Histology, and Why Is It Important?
When a mole is removed, histology (the examination of the tissue sample under a microscope) is the next step in determining whether the mole is benign or malignant. This test provides an accurate diagnosis and helps determine whether further treatment is needed.
At Victoria House Clinic, Mr. George Filobbos provides a full service, including mole checks, removals, and histology testing. His expertise ensures that any potentially cancerous moles are dealt with promptly and with the utmost care.
Skin Cancer in the UK: Alarming Statistics and the Importance of Early Detection
Skin cancer rates are increasing at a rapid pace in the UK, with diagnoses doubling every 10 to 20 years. This growing trend highlights the urgency for proactive skin health awareness and regular checks.
- In the UK, 1 in 4 men and 1 in 5 women will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer during their lifetime, a statistic that underscores the prevalence of this disease.
- Each year, over 230,000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed across the UK, and projections suggest that this number could nearly reach 400,000 annually by 2025.
- Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, is responsible for around 17,500 new diagnoses annually in the UK. This number is expected to rise to 20,000 cases per year by 2025.
- The likelihood of developing melanoma during a lifetime is now 1 in 36 for men and 1 in 47 for women. Alarmingly, melanoma is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the 15-34 age group.
- Around 3,500 people die from skin cancer in the UK each year, which is more than the number of skin cancer-related deaths in Australia, often referred to as the "sunshine capital of the world."
- Treating skin cancer costs the NHS over £500 million annually, a significant financial burden on the healthcare system.
However, the most important takeaway is that 90% of skin cancers are preventable. When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable, with almost all cases curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stages.
Source: SKCIN: THE KAREN CLIFFORD SKIN CANCER CHARITY / REGISTERED CHARITY: 1150048
Why Choose Victoria House Clinic for Mole Checks and Skin Cancer Detection?
At Victoria House Clinic, we offer more than just mole removal – we provide comprehensive care that prioritises both aesthetics and your overall health. Here’s why you should choose us:
Expert Care: Mr. George Filobbos, is a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon, and leads the way in skin cancer detection and treatment at Victoria House Clinic. With his years of experience and his role at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham in plastics and reconstructive surgery, you can trust that you’re in the best hands.
Comprehensive Service: From mole checks to histology testing, we offer a full service that ensures thorough care.
Ethical Approach: We’re committed to early detection and prevention, providing you with a clear and accurate diagnosis with no pressure to undergo unnecessary procedures.
Convenient and Confidential: Our clinic is centrally located in Sutton Coldfield, with free parking available. We offer a confidential, caring environment where your well-being is our top priority.
Conclusion: Stay Ahead of Skin Cancer with Regular Mole Checks
Taking care of your skin health is a lifelong commitment. By practicing sun safety, using sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and getting regular skin check-ups, you can significantly lower your risk of developing skin cancer. If you notice any changes in your skin, don’t wait – contact Victoria House Clinic today to book your Full Body Mole Check with Mr. George Filobbos.
Early detection is essential, and with our expert-led services, you can take the first step toward protecting your skin health and peace of mind.
Book your mole check appointment at Victoria House Clinic today for just £200, you can get peace of mind with a full body mole check conducted by a skin cancer specialist.
