Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, yet it is also one of the most preventable and treatable when detected early. Understanding your risk, recognizing warning signs, and knowing when to seek professional care can make a life-saving difference. At Madison Medical Dermatology, our specialists are dedicated to helping patients protect their skin and receive expert care at every stage.
Understanding Skin Cancer Risk Factors
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but certain factors can increase your risk. Common risk factors include:
- Excessive or unprotected sun exposure
- History of sunburns, especially during childhood
- Use of tanning beds
- Fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
- A family or personal history of skin cancer
- Weakened immune system
Practicing effective skin cancer prevention strategies is especially important for those at higher risk.
Skin Cancer Prevention Tips
While not all skin cancers can be prevented, you can significantly reduce your risk with smart sun habits:
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
- Avoid tanning beds
- Perform regular self-skin exams and schedule routine professional skin checks
These steps, combined with regular dermatology visits, play a key role in long-term skin health.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Early detection is critical. Be sure to check your skin monthly and look for:
- New or changing moles or lesions
- Spots that itch, bleed, or do not heal
- Asymmetrical moles with irregular borders
- Changes in color, size, or texture of the skin
If you notice any unusual changes, it’s important to make an appointment with one of our dermatologists here at Madison Medical.
Treatment Options for Skin Cancer
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer, as well as your overall health. Options may include:
- Excision: Surgical removal of the cancerous tissue
- Topical therapies: For certain early-stage cancers
- Cryotherapy: Freezing abnormal cells
- Mohs surgery treatment: A highly precise surgical technique that removes cancer layer by layer while preserving healthy tissue
Mohs surgery is often recommended for skin cancers on the face, hands, or other sensitive areas and offers one of the highest cure rates available.
Expert Care at Madison Medical Dermatology
At Madison Medical Dermatology, patients receive personalized, comprehensive care – from routine screenings to advanced skin cancer treatment options like Mohs surgery. Our dermatology team is committed to early detection, effective treatment, and patient education to help you feel confident in your skin health.
If you have concerns about a spot on your skin or want to schedule a preventative screening, contact Madison Medical today to take the next step toward healthier skin. Call 414-298-7100 to schedule an appointment.