Skin cancer screening

definition

Screening is a preventive medical check-up and is used for the early detection of risk factors and preliminary stages of skin cancer.

Read more on the subject at: How do you recognize skin cancer?

General

Since 2008, it has been possible across Germany to have a comprehensive skin cancer screening carried out every 2 years from the age of 35 and thereafter. This is covered by the statutory health insurance.
Such a screening is of course also possible beforehand, but then it has to be paid for privately. With some health insurance companies, the biennial screening is now taken over from the age of 20.
The screening is carried out by a qualified general practitioner, internist or dermatologist who has attended a training course on how to carry out skin cancer screening.

Three types of skin cancer and their precursors are being investigated:

• Malignant melanoma (Black Skincancer)
• Basal cell carcinoma
• spinocellular carcinoma (the last two types are collectively known as white skin cancer).

Skin cancer is and is becoming more common the most common cancer worldwide!
Detected early enough, but almost 100% of skin cancer cases are curable!
It is all the more important to make use of the skin cancer screening program.

How do I prepare for skin cancer screening?

On the day of your screening, you should no nail polish because skin cancer can also develop on fingernails and toenails.
Please wear no make-upOtherwise it is almost impossible for the doctor to recognize early forms of skin cancer, especially in the sun-exposed face!
they should no elaborate hairstyles and only a little hair gel / spray because the scalp is also examined.
In many practices you will get one in advance questionnaire which you have to fill out and show to the doctor. For example, you will be asked whether you have already suffered a lot of sunburn, whether your family has skin cancer and the like. This enables the doctor to make a rough estimate of how at risk you are for skin cancer.

How does skin cancer screening work?

For skin cancer screening, plan about 10 to 15 minutes a.

First, your doctor will discuss the questionnaire with you and to Ask about risk factors. He will answer your questions and give you tips on how to protect yourself against skin cancer.

He then uses a wooden spatula to her hair parting and parting after parting after changes in the Scalp search. Afterwards he is using another wooden spatula Oral mucosa, tongue and Gums search. Then he looks at himself face and Ears more precisely.

It is important that you sign up for skin cancer screening afterwards completely undress, as skin cancer can also develop in areas with little sun exposure. It now follows the thorough examination of poor, Legs, chest, belly, move, buttocks such as Hands and Feet including spaces between toes; in a bright environment and centimeter by centimeter. If the doctor notices something, he can use a dermatoscope - a magnifying glass with light - but this is not a must.

What happens when skin changes are discovered?

If the doctor notices suspicious skin changes, the patient is referred to a dermatologist.
This does not mean that skin cancer is actually present! It can also be a benign change or one Precancer act that, recognized early, can be treated very well.
The dermatologist will take another closer look at the suspicious area and possibly one Skin biopsy in Local anesthesia do.

What can I do myself to detect skin cancer early?

We recommend a Self examination, if possible the entire skin, once a month before the mirror or through the partner perform.
Once you notice moles that appear change, darker become, blossoms or itch, please consult a dermatologist immediately!
Rough areas on the face or scalp, especially bald patches, can be a precursor to white skin cancer. Please show this to your family doctor!

How can I prevent skin cancer?

The general rule:

• Avoid sunburn by applying suncream with sufficient sun protection factor!

• Do you wear Hats or other headgear!

• Avoid the midday sun!

• Seldom use solariums!

Your personal risk of developing skin cancer depends on your skin type, predisposition and the amount of UV light exposed. (see also What is your skin type?)