Regular skin checks are an essential part of maintaining good health, and at Brookwater Medical Centre, we understand the importance of early detection of any potential skin issues. Moles are a common skin condition that can become cancerous if left unchecked, which is why it’s crucial to have them checked regularly.
You should check your moles every 1-3 months at home. If you have any moles on your back or in hard to examine areas, we recommend asking a loved one to assist you. During this check, you should look for:
- Assymetry – moles should be round and regularly shaped
- Blurry edges – moles should have a clearly defined edge
- Hints of blue, red, or white
- Patches of scaly skin
- Changes in size, colour, shape or level (has it become raised?)
- Any new moles
- Any moles which are oozing, bleeding, sore, itchy, tender, or larger than a pea
If you detect any of these issues, we recommend you book an appointment to have your moles checked professionally.
How often should you get your moles checked professionally? The answer to that question varies depending on a few factors. If you have a family history of skin cancer or have a large number of moles, you should consider getting checked more frequently. In general, we recommend that patients get their moles checked at least once a year to ensure that any changes or abnormalities are identified and addressed promptly.
A professional may identify signs of skin cancer which were missed during your home mole checks. You should also book in an appointment with a professional if you note any of the prior mentioned abnormalities during a home mole check.
At Brookwater Medical Centre, we offer a range of skin clinic services including mole scanning and mapping, biopsy, and minor skin cancer procedures. The mole scanning will create a map of every mole on your body, checking for signs of cancer, and providing a reference point for your next map to detect any new or changing moles. If any suspicious moles are detected, your doctor may recommend a biopsy to determine whether the mole is cancerous.
The costs expected for a full body skin check can be seen on our fees page.
In addition to regular skin checks, there are steps you can take to protect your skin and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. It’s essential to wear sunscreen every day, avoid tanning beds, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day. Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats, can also help prevent sun damage.
At Brookwater Medical Centre, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality medical care. If you have any concerns about your skin, including moles or other skin irregularities, we encourage you to schedule a skin check with one of our experienced doctors. Early detection is key to treating skin cancer successfully, and regular skin checks are an essential part of maintaining good health.
