According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, making it the most common form of cancer in the United States. Despite how widespread it is, many cases go undetected until later stages, when treatment becomes more complex and outcomes less certain.
At Peach Dermatology, we specialize in cosmetic, surgical, and general dermatology in Suwanee, GA, and serve the surrounding communities of Duluth, Sugar Hill, Buford, and Johns Creek, offering expert skin cancer screenings and annual skin exams for both adults and children. Led by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Waqas R. Shaikh, MD, MPH, our team is committed to early detection, education, and proactive care. If you’ve never had a full-body skin check or it’s been more than a year since your last exam, we’re here to help. Schedule your skin cancer screening today.
Here’s why regular skin cancer screenings should be a standard part of your annual wellness routine.
The Importance of Early Skin Cancer Detection
When detected at an early stage, most skin cancers—including squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma—can be treated successfully with minimal intervention. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of full recovery and lowers the likelihood of recurrence.
Some of the most common skin cancer signs include:
- New or changing moles
- Scaly patches or non-healing sores
- Growths with irregular borders or uneven color
- Bleeding or itchy spots
- Unusual lesions that appear after sun exposure
Because these skin cancer symptoms often go unnoticed or are mistaken for benign skin issues, a professional skin cancer dermatologist plays a key role in early recognition and management.
How Skin Cancer Screenings Work
A professional skin cancer screening is a non-invasive exam performed by a dermatologist to carefully evaluate your skin from head to toe. At Peach Dermatology, our skin exams include:
- Full-body inspection using medical-grade lighting and magnification
- Identification of any suspicious spots, unusual moles, or skin changes
- Documentation and photography for future comparison
- Biopsy or follow-up testing, if needed, for areas of concern
Screenings are quick, typically lasting 10–20 minutes, and do not involve any discomfort. These exams are critical for detecting early-stage melanomas and other lesions that patients may not see on their own.
For individuals with a history of skin cancer, frequent annual skin examinations are essential to monitor for recurrence or the development of new lesions.
Who Should Get Screened and How Often?
While annual skin exams are recommended for most adults, they are especially important for those with the following risk factors:
- A family history or personal history of skin cancer
- Significant sun exposure or history of sunburns
- Light or fair skin, freckles, or light-colored eyes and hair
- Tanning bed use
- Atypical or unusual moles
- Organ transplant recipients or immunosuppressed individuals
- Previous diagnosis of melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or basal cell carcinoma
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises that individuals at increased risk should undergo regular skin evaluations. At Peach Dermatology, we tailor screening frequency based on your unique history and clinical presentation.
For most patients, an annual skin exam is sufficient. For those with high-risk profiles, melanoma screening may be recommended more frequently.
Monitoring Skin Changes at Home
While professional exams are essential, self-awareness between visits also plays a critical role. We encourage patients to perform monthly self-checks and watch for:
- New spots or growths
- Changes in size, shape, or color of existing moles
- Sores that don’t heal
- Asymmetry, irregular borders, or multicolored lesions
The ABCDE rule is a helpful guide for spotting skin cancer signs:
- A – Asymmetry
- B – Border irregularity
- C – Color variation
- D – Diameter larger than 6mm
- E – Evolving or changing lesions
If you notice any of these signs, schedule an evaluation right away. Early identification is especially critical for detecting squamous cell skin cancers and developing melanoma compared to slower-growing lesions.
Why Choose Peach Dermatology for Skin Cancer Screening?
At Peach Dermatology, we provide trusted, physician-directed dermatologic care designed to protect your health and peace of mind. Our team brings decades of experience in identifying, monitoring, and treating all types of skin cancer, from early detection to surgical removal when necessary.
Here’s what makes our practice different:
- Board-certified care: Led by Dr. Shaikh, a skilled expert in medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology
- Comprehensive skin exams: From routine screenings to high-risk surveillance
- Patient-centered care: We listen, educate, and create care plans that work for you
- Convenient access: Located in Suwanee, Georgia, and proudly serving Duluth, Sugar Hill, Buford, and Johns Creek
- Ongoing skin health monitoring: Long-term care for those with a history of skin cancer or elevated risk
Your skin deserves expert care. Let us help you take a proactive step toward your long-term health.
Protect Your Skin with a Yearly Skin Cancer Screening
Annual skin exams can detect early warning signs before they become serious, especially for those at increased risk. At Peach Dermatology, we make it easy to stay on top of your skin health with compassionate, comprehensive care.
Call Peach Dermatology at 770-676-2200 or book online to schedule your yearly. Let us help you protect your skin and your peace of mind with trusted care that puts your health first.
