Doctors warn of hidden skin cancer risks
Experts say moles can change subtly, and cancer often appears in hard-to-see areas like the scalp and under nails.
By Samir Patterson ·
Skin cancer does not always look like a dark, changing mole. Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, says people often miss warning signs such as sores that will not heal or moles that bleed easily. These symptoms can appear in areas of the body that are not frequently exposed to the sun.
Rogers explains that doctors use specific criteria to evaluate moles. They look for asymmetry, irregular borders, and changes in color or diameter. A mole that is evolving or changing in appearance is a key indicator for concern. Even small changes matter, according to gerontologist Sam Cradduck. She notes that a growth of just one millimeter can be important when tracking a spot over time.
People often focus on checking sun-exposed areas like the arms and face. However, Rogers says skin cancer can hide in unexpected places. It can appear behind the ears, between the toes, or underneath the nails. The scalp is another common spot where people may miss issues because it is difficult to see. Rogers suggests that a doctor's exam or help from another person is necessary to check these hard-to-see areas.
Aging expert Amy O'Rourke shared her own experience to illustrate this point. She visited a dermatologist about a brown spot on her cheek. During a full body scan, the doctor found cancer on top of her head. The tumor was squamous cell carcinoma, and O'Rourke underwent surgery to remove it. She noted that about three-quarters of her family has had skin cancer, suggesting a strong genetic component.
Katherie Ambrose, an aging well coach, recently had a similar experience. She found a dermatologist and scheduled a full body scan. Her husband also received a scan. Ambrose suggests that people check their insurance plans, as some cover an annual dermatology exam similar to a well-woman visit.
Rogers identifies several risk factors for skin cancer. Fair skin, age, and family history all play a role. She believes the cause is likely a combination of both genetic and environmental factors. Sun damage is a primary environmental trigger. Rogers warns that UVA and UVB light is invisible and can pass through glass. This means people can get burned indoors or through car windows.
Different types of skin cancer present differently. Melanoma is often linked to intense, intermittent sunburns and can spread quickly. Rogers says patients need to pay close attention to any new or changing moles. Squamous cell and basal cell cancers often look different. They may appear as pinkish spots, itchy patches, or sores that do not heal. These lesions do not always look scary, which Rogers says makes them dangerous because people may ignore them.
Rogers also addresses a common myth regarding skin color. She states that African Americans do need sunscreen. Sunscreen protects cells and DNA from damage. In addition to sunscreen, people can use sun-protective clothing. Options include rash guards, UV clothing, and wide-brimmed hats. These items provide a physical barrier against harmful rays.
During an annual dermatology visit, patients should request a full body exam. Doctors can perform mole mapping to track changes over time. This helps identify if a spot is growing or changing in shape. Early detection is essential for successful treatment. Patients should report any new bumps, sores, or changes in existing moles to their provider immediately.
The next step for many patients is scheduling that annual checkup. If a spot has grown, changed symmetry, or started to bleed, it requires professional evaluation. Doctors can determine if a biopsy is needed. Keeping a record of skin changes helps in this process. Patients should not wait for a spot to become painful or large before seeking care.
