Changes in your skin can be easy to overlook, especially when they seem small or painless. But paying attention to those changes matters. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, and when it is caught early, it is often highly treatable. Knowing what to look for and when to seek care can help you feel more confident in taking the next step.
At Cancer Specialists of North Florida, care starts with listening. Our team is here to guide you through skin cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment with a thoughtful, personalized approach that puts your comfort and understanding first.
Common Types of Skin Cancer
Understanding the different types of skin cancer can help you recognize when something may need attention.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
This is the most common type of skin cancer. It often appears as a pearly bump, a flat flesh-colored spot, or a sore that doesn’t fully heal.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This type may look like a red, scaly patch or a firm bump. It can penetrate deeper into the skin and may spread if left untreated.
Melanoma
Melanoma is less common but more aggressive. It may develop within an existing mole or appear as a new, darker spot that looks different from the rest.
Skin Cancer Signs to Watch For
Recognizing early signs of skin cancer can help you take action sooner. One simple way to evaluate moles or spots is the ABCDE rule:
A – Asymmetry: One half does not match the other
B – Border: Edges are irregular or uneven
C – Color: Different shades or uneven coloring
D – Diameter: Larger than a pencil eraser
E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, or color
You may also notice:
- A sore that does not heal
- A spot that bleeds, crusts, or itches
- A new growth that stands out from others
If something feels different or concerning, it is always okay to have it checked. You don’t have to figure it out on your own.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Skin cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase your risk:
- Frequent or long-term sun exposure
- A history of sunburns
- Fair skin, light hair, or light eyes
- A personal or family history of skin cancer
- Use of tanning beds
Even without these risk factors, staying aware of changes in your skin and scheduling routine skin cancer screenings can help catch concerns early.
When to See a Specialist
It’s not always easy to tell what’s normal and what isn’t. That’s why it’s important to trust your instincts and seek care when something doesn’t feel right. You should consider scheduling an evaluation if you notice:
- A mole or spot that is changing
- A lesion that hasn’t healed after a few weeks
- Persistent itching, tenderness, or bleeding
- Any new or unusual growth
What to Expect During a Skin Cancer Evaluation
If you’ve never had a skin evaluation before, you may not know what to expect. The process is straightforward and focused on your comfort. During your visit, your provider will:
- Take time to understand your concerns
- Perform a thorough skin exam
- Review your medical history and risk factors
If a spot needs a closer look, your provider may recommend a small biopsy. Your care team will walk you through each step, answer your questions, and make sure you feel informed and supported.
Treatment Options & Personalized Care
If skin cancer is diagnosed, several effective treatment options are available. Your care plan will be based on your specific diagnosis, overall health, and individual needs. Treatment options may include:
- Surgical removal
- Topical or targeted therapies
- Radiation therapy
- Additional treatments for more advanced cases
At Cancer Specialists of North Florida, treatment is never one-size-fits-all. Your care team works closely with you to create a plan that is both effective and aligned with your goals, while supporting you throughout the process.
Early Detection Makes a Meaningful Difference
When it comes to skin cancer, early detection can lead to better outcomes and more treatment options. Taking the time to notice changes in your skin and having them evaluated can make a lasting difference in your health. If something doesn’t look or feel right, you don’t have to wait or wonder.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Evaluation
If you’ve noticed possible melanoma, family history of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers (squamous cell, basal cell) or other concerning skin lesions symptoms or other changes in your skin, the team at Cancer Specialists of North Florida is here to help. You’ll have a team that listens, answers your questions, and supports you every step of the way. Schedule your appointment today.
