Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States — and Florida residents face an elevated risk due to year-round sun exposure. The good news: when detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable.
The Three Main Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form, typically appearing as a pearly or waxy bump on sun-exposed skin. It rarely spreads but can cause significant local damage if left untreated.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type. It may look like a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface. SCC can spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly.
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin. Though less common than BCC or SCC, melanoma accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths.
The ABCDE Rule
Use the ABCDE rule to evaluate any mole or skin growth:
- A — Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other
- B — Border: Edges are ragged, notched, or blurred
- C — Color: Uneven color including shades of brown, black, red, or white
- D — Diameter: Larger than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
- E — Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or a new symptom like bleeding
Who Is at Risk?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, your risk increases if you:
- Have fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
- Have a history of sunburns, especially blistering burns
- Have a personal or family history of skin cancer
- Spend significant time outdoors
- Use or have used tanning beds
- Have many moles (more than 50) or unusual-looking moles
Why Annual Screenings Matter
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends annual skin exams for adults over 25. Most people skip them not because they don't care about their health — but because getting in to see a dermatology professional is inconvenient. Long wait times and scheduling hassles mean that potentially life-saving appointments get pushed off.
OnSpot Dermatology exists to remove that barrier. Our mobile Derma Drive® events bring dermatology professionals directly to your community or workplace — so there's no excuse to skip your annual skin check.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology; Skin Cancer Foundation.
Ready for a Skin Exam?
Education is the first step. Schedule your annual skin cancer screening with a OnSpot dermatology professional — in your community or at one of our offices.
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