Skin Cancer Screening: Why It Matters and How to Get Tested

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, but catching it early can save a lot of trouble. A quick screening can spot a problem before it grows, making treatment easier and cheaper. If you spend a few minutes each year on a skin check, you’ll protect your health and peace of mind.

How Often Should You Get Screened?

Most doctors recommend a full skin exam at least once a year for anyone over 30, and more often if you have risk factors. Risk factors include:

• Lots of sun exposure or tanning bed use
• Fair skin that burns easily
• A family history of skin cancer
• Previous skin cancers or unusual moles

If any of these apply, book an appointment every six months. If you’re under 30 and have no risk factors, a self‑exam every month and a professional check every two years is usually enough.

What Happens During a Professional Screening?

A dermatologist will start by looking at your skin in a well‑lit room. They use a dermatoscope – a handheld magnifier – to see details a naked eye can miss. The doctor checks every area that gets sun, even places you might forget, like the scalp, back of the ears, and between toes.

If they find a spot that looks suspicious, they might take a small sample (a biopsy). The sample is sent to a lab, and results usually come back in a week. Most suspicious spots turn out to be harmless, but it’s better to know for sure.

Do It Yourself: Simple Self‑Exam Steps

Self‑exams are quick and free. Here’s a no‑fuss routine:

1. Stand in front of a full‑length mirror. Look at your face, neck, and ears.
2. Use a hand mirror to check the back of your head, under your chin, and inside your ears.
3. Step into the shower and use a loofah or washcloth to gently pull your skin taut. Look for new or changing spots on your arms, legs, and torso.
4. Don’t forget the tops of your feet, between your toes, and the soles of your feet.

Use the ABCDE rule to spot trouble:

• Asymmetry – one half looks different from the other.
• Border – irregular or ragged edges.
• Color – multiple shades or a dark spot.
• Diameter – larger than 6 mm (about a pencil eraser).
• Evolution – any change over time.

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment right away.

Quick Sun Safety Tips to Lower Your Risk

Screenings work best when you also protect your skin daily. Here are three easy habits:

• Apply a broad‑spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning, even on cloudy days.
• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and UV‑protective clothing when you’re outside for more than 15 minutes.
• Seek shade between 11 am and 3 pm, when UV rays are strongest.

These steps won’t eliminate risk, but they’ll cut it dramatically.

Bottom line: skin cancer screening is a simple, painless way to stay ahead of a serious disease. Combine regular professional checks, a monthly self‑exam, and smart sun habits, and you’ll give your skin the best chance to stay healthy. Book your next appointment today – your future self will thank you.