Why should I perform a skin self-exam?

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  A Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine answered

  By examining your skin on a regular basis, you may notice the earliest sign of any type of skin change or new lesion. You live in your body day in and day out and you should notice changes first. Seeing a doctor is the first step you should take if you notice something new or different. He or she can reassure you if it is something serious or not, and discuss whether you may need a skin biopsy for further evaluation.
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  A RealAge answered

  Statistics show that approximately 50% of all people are likely to suffer from skin cancer by age 65, so everyone should know how to perform skin self-exams to spot potential problems. Self-exams may help lead to treatment in the earliest stage of skin cancer, when outcomes are best. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas have a cure rate of up to 90% with early detection and treatment. Even deadly melanoma may be cured if identified and treated early enough.

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