Understanding the Importance and Timing

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, but it is also one of the most preventable and treatable when caught early. Yet, despite its prevalence, many people are unsure about when to start getting skin cancer checks or how frequently they should schedule them. With the rise in sun exposure, tanning, and outdoor activities, it’s essential to know when to start monitoring your skin and why early detection matters.

What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells begin to grow uncontrollably. There are three main types:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive form of skin cancer. It usually appears as a small, flesh-coloured bump or a patch of skin that’s raised, shiny, or red.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This cancer develops in the squamous cells, which are found in the outer layer of the skin. It can appear as scaly, crusted, or bleeding patches.
3. Melanoma: The deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma starts in melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment). It often appears as an irregular mole or dark spot on the skin.

While all skin types are at risk, people with fair skin, light-coloured eyes, and a history of sunburn are at higher risk. In addition, a family history of skin cancer or excessive sun exposure over time can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

When Should You Start Skin Cancer Checks?

The short answer is: the sooner, the better. However, the exact age to start getting regular skin cancer checks depends on several factors, such as your skin type, family history, and lifestyle. Here’s a general guideline to help you understand when you should begin skin cancer screenings:

1. In Your 20s and 30s: The Early Years of Prevention

While skin cancer may not typically develop in your 20s or early 30s, this is the time to start establishing good habits. Skin checks should begin in your early 20s, especially if you have:

• A family history of skin cancer
• A history of frequent sunburns or tanning (whether from the sun or tanning beds)
• Fair skin, light-coloured eyes, or a large number of moles
• A history of excessive sun exposure in your youth, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

At this stage, it’s more about prevention and early awareness. You can perform regular self-exams to monitor changes in your skin. If you notice any new moles, freckles, or spots that change shape, size, or colour, it’s time to see an experienced skin cancer clinician. Early detection often results in easier, less invasive treatments.

2. In Your 40s: Routine Checks Become More Important

By your 40s, your risk of developing skin cancer increases, especially if you have accumulated years of sun exposure. It’s time to start seeing an experienced skin cancer clinician for professional skin cancer checks once a year. A skin cancer clinician can assess your moles, check for irregularities, and monitor any spots that might raise concerns.

You may also notice more changes to your skin as you age, such as increased wrinkling, sunspots, or age spots. While most of these changes are harmless, a skin cancer clinician can differentiate between these and potential signs of skin cancer.

3. In Your 50s and Beyond: Annual Skin Checks Are Crucial

By the time you hit your 50s, your chances of developing skin cancer rise even further, especially if you have a history of sunburns or indoor tanning in your younger years. Skin checks should become an annual routine, with additional follow-ups if necessary.

As we age, our immune system becomes less effective at fighting off cancerous cells, so early detection is even more critical. In your 50s and beyond, skin cancers like melanoma can become more aggressive, and early detection is key to ensuring effective treatment.

Why Early Skin Cancer Checks Matter

Getting skin cancer checks early, regardless of your age, can save your life. Here’s why:

1. Skin Cancer is Highly Treatable When Caught Early

Unlike many other cancers, skin cancer can often be detected visually through routine skin exams. If caught early, many forms of skin cancer—particularly BCC and SCC—can be treated easily with procedures like excision or cryotherapy. Melanoma, though more aggressive, can also be cured if detected early and treated promptly.

2. Skin Cancer Can Spread

While basal and squamous cell carcinomas are usually confined to the skin, melanoma can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. When melanoma is caught at an early stage, it can often be surgically removed with minimal effort. However, once it spreads, treatment becomes more difficult and intensive.

3. Skin Cancer is More Prevalent Than You Think

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, over 9,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day in the U.S. This is why regular checks—whether self-exams or professional screenings—are crucial to keeping your skin healthy.

4. Prevention Through Awareness

When you start getting skin cancer checks early, you become more attuned to changes in your skin. You’ll be able to identify suspicious spots early and seek treatment before they develop into more serious issues. Regular self-exams are one of the easiest ways to spot potential problems before they worsen.

How to Perform a Skin Cancer Self-Exam

Along with professional skin cancer checks, performing regular self-exams is essential. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Use Good Lighting: Make sure you’re in a well-lit room, ideally near a full-length mirror.
2. Check Your Entire Body: Examine your entire body, including areas you may not normally think about—your scalp, between your toes, and your private areas.
3. Look for the ABCDEs of Melanoma: Pay special attention to moles or spots that display these characteristics:
   • Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
   • Border: Irregular or jagged edges.
   • Colour: Multiple colours or uneven distribution of colour.
   • Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
   • Evolution: Changes in shape, size, or colour over time.
4. Track Any Changes: If you notice new spots or existing moles changing, make an appointment with your skin cancer clinician.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait—Start Skin Cancer Checks Now

The good news is that skin cancer is largely preventable, and when caught early, it is highly treatable. The best time to start having skin cancer checks is in your 20s and 30s, especially if you have risk factors like fair skin, a history of sunburns, or a family history of skin cancer. As you age, regular skin checks should become a consistent part of your healthcare routine, ideally starting in your 40s and continuing annually thereafter.

By monitoring your skin and seeking professional help when needed, you can reduce your risk of developing serious skin conditions. Remember, prevention and early detection are the keys to healthy, radiant skin—and a long, healthy life.