Skin Cancer Screening

Screening for skin cancer means having your skin checked for skin cancer when you don't have any symptoms. Skin cancer may be treated more successfully if it is caught early.

• The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) hasn't recommended for or against routine skin cancer screening for adults at average risk. This means the USPSTF didn't find enough evidence from studies to show that all adults with an average risk for skin cancer would benefit from having regular screening.
• But your doctor may suggest screening if you have a higher than average risk of skin cancer. Your risk is higher than average if you have:
  • A lot of moles (50 or more) or abnormal moles (called atypical moles).
  • A family history of melanoma.
  • Skin that is very sun sensitive. This includes people who have pale skin, natural red or blond hair, a lot of freckles, or eyes that are green, hazel, or blue.
  • A personal history of skin cancer.
• Your doctor may also suggest screening if you have a higher risk of dying from melanoma if you get it. This includes people with darker skin.

Skin self-exam

Skin cancer, including melanoma, is curable if spotted early. A careful skin exam may identify growths that may be cancer or growths that may develop into skin cancer (precancers).

• Learn the ABCDEs of early detection. These are the changes in a mole or skin growth that are warning signs of melanoma.
• Examine your skin regularly. Get to know your moles and birthmarks. And look for any abnormal skin growth and any change in the color, shape, size, or appearance of a skin growth. Make sure to check your entire body, including the palms of your hands, the soles of your feet, and underneath your nails.
• Check for any area of skin that does not heal after an injury.
• Ask your doctor to check your skin during health exams.
• Bring any suspicious skin growths or changes in a mole to the attention of your doctor.