Dermatologists urge full-body checks as skin cancer risks rise with age
Doctors say sores that will not heal and moles that bleed are key warning signs often missed by older adults.
By Renata Mehta ·
Skin cancer does not always appear as a changing mole. Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, told listeners on the WDRB radio program Aging Untold that sores that refuse to heal are a primary warning sign. She noted that moles which bleed easily also require immediate attention.
Rogers explained the specific criteria doctors use to evaluate suspicious spots. These factors include asymmetry, border definition, color variation, diameter, and evolution over time. Gerontologist Sam Cradduck emphasized that even small changes are critical. She stated that a growth of one millimeter can matter a lot.
Many patients focus exclusively on sun-exposed areas. Rogers warned that the disease can hide in locations patients rarely inspect. These areas include behind the ears, between the toes, and underneath the nails. She recommended using a partner or a professional for examinations of hard-to-see spots like the scalp. Rogers added that these growths do not always look scary, which makes them dangerous.
Amy O'Rourke, an aging expert, shared her own medical history. She visited a dermatologist for a brown spot on her cheek. A full-body scan revealed squamous cell cancer on the top of her head. She underwent surgery to remove the growth. O'Rourke noted that about three-quarters of her family has had skin cancer.
Rogers identified fair skin, age, and family history as major risk factors. She said the cause is probably both genetic and environmental. She warned that UVA and UVB light is invisible and can pass through glass. Melanoma is typically linked to intense, intermittent sunburns. Rogers said melanoma spreads very quickly. Squamous cell and basal cell cancers often appear as pinkish, itchy sores that do not heal.
The doctor addressed a common belief regarding skin color. She said African Americans need sunscreen just as much as others. Sunscreen protects against damage to cells and DNA. Rogers suggested that patients check their insurance policies. Some plans cover an annual dermatology exam similarly to a well-woman exam. Patients should request a full-body exam and ask about mole mapping to track changes over time.
Katherie Ambrose, an aging well coach, said she recently found a dermatologist. She and her husband both had full-body scans. The hosts of the program also mentioned sun-protective clothing options. These include rash guards, UV clothing, and wide-brimmed hats.
