Download FAQ - American Academy of Dermatology

Screening for Skin Cancer: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Draft
Recommendation Statement
Patient FAQ
Q: What does this recommendation mean?
A: The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a group that provides guidance for primary
care physicians, has determined that there is not enough scientific evidence to
recommend that adults receive regular skin cancer screenings from a doctor. This does
not mean the USPSTF is recommending against skin cancer screenings; it means the
group did not find enough evidence to make a recommendation one way or another.
Q: What does a skin cancer screening entail?
A: A skin cancer screening is a noninvasive exam during which a medical professional
performs a visual inspection of the skin. No blood work is required.
Q: Does the USPSTF recommendation cover everyone?
A: No. This recommendation only applies to adults with no suspicious spots on their
skin and no history of skin cancer. Those who do have a skin cancer history should talk
to their board-certified dermatologist to determine how often they should receive a skin
exam from a doctor. Individuals with an increased risk of melanoma — including men
older than 50; people with more than 50 moles, or large or unusual moles; and people
with fair skin — also should talk to their dermatologist about how often they should
receive a skin cancer screening.
Q: Does the USPSTF recommendation apply to skin self-exams?
A: No. This recommendation only applies to exams conducted by a doctor. The
American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone regularly examine their
skin for suspicious spots. If you notice any unusual spots on your skin, including those
that are changing, itching or bleeding, make an appointment with your dermatologist.
Q: Why do I need to be alert for signs of skin cancer?
A: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. All forms of skin cancer —
including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer — are most treatable when
detected early. Although the USPSTF recommendation is focused on melanoma, which
causes the majority of skin cancer deaths, it’s also important to be aware of the signs of
nonmelanoma skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell
carcinoma; if left undetected and untreated, these cancers can be severely damaging or
even deadly.
Q: How can I learn more about skin cancer detection?
A: Talk to your dermatologist, who can explain how to perform a skin self-exam and
describe the skin cancer warning signs you should watch out for. You also can visit the
Academy website SpotSkinCancer.org, where you can find a variety of skin cancer
information and resources, including a How to Spot Skin Cancer infographic and a body
mole map you can use to track changes on your skin.