May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and if you have been putting off a skin check, this is your reminder to book it. Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States, and here in the Lowcountry, where sun exposure is a way of life year-round, that statistic hits close to home. At Charleston Dermatology, we want every patient to know one simple truth: when skin cancer is caught early, it is highly treatable. The key is catching it.

The Numbers Are Hard to Ignore 

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Melanoma, the most serious form, is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths, but when detected in its earliest stages, it carries a five-year survival rate of approximately 99%. That number changes dramatically when detection is delayed. Regular skin checks are not an overreaction. They are one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health. 

What We Are Looking For 

Skin cancer does not always announce itself. That is why a professional skin check matters. During your appointment, your dermatologist will examine your skin head to toe, looking for changes that are easy to miss on your own. The ABCDEs of melanoma are a helpful starting point: 

• Asymmetry:One half of a mole does not match the other
• Border:Edges that are irregular, ragged, or blurred
• Color:Uneven color or multiple shades within the same spot
• Diameter:Any spot larger than a pencil eraser
• Evolving:Any mole or spot that is changing in size, shape, or color

If you notice any of these, do not wait for your next annual visit. Come in sooner.

Who Should Be Getting Checked

The short answer is everyone. But you are at higher risk if you have fair skin, a history of sunburns, a family history of skin cancer, spend significant time outdoors, or have a lot of moles. Living in South Carolina puts you in a high UV exposure zone every single month of the year, not just summer. That makes routine skin checks especially important for our patients. 

What You Can Do Between Appointments 

Professional checks are essential, but so is knowing your own skin. Perform a monthly self-exam at home, use SPF 30 or higher every day, and protect exposed skin with hats and clothing when you are outside. These habits are simple and they save lives.This month, give your skin the attention it deserves. At Charleston Dermatology, our team is here to provide thorough, compassionate skin cancer screenings in a comfortable setting. Contact us today to book your skin check. It is a small appointment that can make a very big difference.