Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, yet myths and misinformation continue to circulate across social media and pop culture. Raising awareness about skin cancer prevention, early detection, and sun safety is critical for protecting long-term skin health.
In this comprehensive guide, we address the top ten trending questions about skin cancer, explore effective treatment options, examine hereditary factors, and share expert-backed prevention tips. You’ll also learn how to protect children’s skin with effective sun protection strategies year-round.
Let’s dive into what you need to know to stay safe and informed.
Yes, skin cancer can indeed cause itching. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, around 37% of skin cancer lesions are itchy, with about 28% being painful. However, itching is not a universal symptom, making regular skin exams critical.
For more detailed symptom guidance, read our blog: 13 Essential Questions About Skin Cancer Answered by Experts.
[Source: Skin Cancer Foundation]
Skin cancer is always treatable and almost always curable when detected early. Basal cell, squamous cell, and early melanomas are all typically removed as an outpatient procedure. Even many advanced skin cancers, those detected at later stages, have very favorable outcomes thanks to advancements in chemo- and immunotherapies.
For more insights into treatment success rates, explore our related post: 5 Most Common Questions About Skin Cancer.
According to board-certified dermatologist and TDS Co-Founder, Dr. Choudhury, “Besides sun exposure, genetics is another contributing factor for developing skin cancer.”
While environmental factors like UV exposure play a dominant role, genetics can significantly influence skin cancer risk. Approximately 10% of individuals diagnosed with skin cancer have a familial link, often due to inherited syndromes like familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome.
For more information on genetic risks, see our in-depth guide: 13 Essential Questions About Skin Cancer Answered by Experts.
Click here to book an appointment with Dr. Choudhury.
What misconceptions do you see most often when it comes to skin cancer in people with darker skin tones?
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. George Romar, “A common misconception is that darker skin can’t get skin cancer, so people often skip checks. But skin cancers in darker skin often appear in hidden areas like the soles of the feet, palms, or under the nails, making regular self-exams and in-clinic evaluations crucial.”
Click here to book an appointment with Dr. Romar.
According to board-certified dermatologist and TDS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Beau DiCicco, “The best treatment for a specific skin cancer is extremely dependent on several factors that you will rely on your board-certified dermatologist to be familiar with. There is no one-size-fits-all for skin cancer. Rarely, we will treat skin cancers non-surgically. Most often, it is a surgery or a combination of surgery and additional treatment, depending on many factors including what type of skin cancer, how advanced it is, what part of your body it’s on, and your goals of care and risk tolerance. Partnering with an expert board-certified dermatologist to help you understand the most appropriate treatment—and why—can make this often-scary situation much more manageable.”
While treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer, it may include:
Click here to book an appointment with Dr. DiCicco.
Yes, basal cell carcinoma can resemble persistent pimples. Typically, these lesions appear as pearly or flesh-colored bumps that don’t heal naturally within a few weeks. If a “pimple” persists, seek dermatological evaluation promptly.
More details can be found in our blog: 5 Most Common Questions About Skin Cancer.
The primary cause of skin cancer is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and artificial sources such as tanning beds. UV exposure damages skin cells, potentially leading to cancer. Dive deeper into how UV causes skin cancer in our detailed post: What Is the Main Cause of Skin Cancer?
Dr. Romar continues, “Besides sun exposure, factors like very fair skin, a family history of skin cancer, a weakened immune system, past radiation or chemical exposures, and tobacco use can all increase your risk of developing skin cancer.”
Dr. Choudhury explains, “Fortunately, it is very rare for individuals under 18 to develop skin cancer.” That said, early protection from UV rays significantly lowers lifelong skin cancer risk. Effective sun protection methods include:
For more information about sun safety tips, read our post: Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Protect Your Skin, Save Your Life
Yes, skin cancer can affect younger people, including adolescents and young adults. Melanoma, in particular, is one of the most common cancers among young adults aged 25 to 29. Early education and regular skin checks are vital for all age groups.
[Source: Skin Cancer Foundation]
Not always. While sun-exposed areas are the most common sites for skin cancer, it can also develop in less exposed areas such as the soles of the feet, palms, nails, and even inside the mouth. Regular full-body checks are essential; a board-certified dermatologist can quickly evaluate any concerning moles or marks in the context of your unique skin.
According to Dr. Choudhury, “An annual skin screening is appropriate for everyone over 18 years of age. Children and young adults that have changing moles should be screened if they have a strong family history for melanoma.”
Annual skin cancer screenings are recommended for most adults, in addition to a family history of skin cancer, other high risk factors include fair skin or extensive sun exposure. Your dermatologist may suggest more frequent screenings based on individual risk assessment.
Dr. Choudhury concludes, “We currently do not have genetic blood tests for screening skin cancer. We are still depending on skin exams to identify skin cancer.” Schedule your skin cancer screening today.
For more information on skin cancer:
If you have concerns about your skin or notice any changes, don’t wait. Early detection is key to effective treatment. Contact The Dermatology Specialists today to schedule a comprehensive skin examination with our board-certified dermatologists.
With over 50 offices across New York City, Long Island, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, you can easily access high-quality dermatological care.
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