Why Annual Skin Cancer Screenings Save Lives

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, yet it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable, especially when found early. At the Peters Dermatology Center in Bend, OR, Dr. Gerald Peters, MD, Ann M. Reitan, PA-C, and Ericka Luckel, PA-C, emphasize that annual skin cancer screenings are more than just a precaution, they’re a lifesaving habit. These checkups allow dermatology professionals to spot suspicious moles or lesions before they become serious, giving patients the best possible chance for a complete recovery.

Why Yearly Screenings Matter

Many people assume that if they don’t spend hours in the sun or use tanning beds, their risk of skin cancer is low. But ultraviolet (UV) damage accumulates over time, often from ordinary daily exposure, like walking the dog, driving with your arm out the window, or enjoying an afternoon on the patio. Even people who tan easily or rarely burn can develop skin cancer, including melanoma, the most dangerous type.

Annual screenings provide an opportunity for a trained eye to identify changes that might go unnoticed. The dermatology specialists at the Peters Dermatology Center use their expertise to differentiate between harmless spots and those that require closer attention. Catching these changes early often means treatment can be simple and minimally invasive, rather than extensive or disfiguring.

Understanding What a Skin Check Involves

A professional skin exam is straightforward and comfortable. During your appointment at our Bend, OR, office, the provider carefully examines your skin from head to toe, including areas you might not normally think to check, such as your scalp, behind your ears, or the bottoms of your feet. If they spot anything concerning, they may use a dermatoscope (a special magnifying tool) or recommend a quick biopsy to confirm whether a lesion is benign or cancerous.

This comprehensive approach ensures that no subtle sign is overlooked. Most importantly, it creates a clear record of your skin’s appearance so that any new or evolving spots can be identified at future visits.

Prevention Starts With Awareness

While screening is essential, prevention plays a key role too. The team at Peters Dermatology Center encourages consistent sun protection, including daily sunscreen use, protective clothing, and regular self-exams. Learning what’s normal for your skin makes it easier to notice changes such as new growths, changes in mole color or size, or sores that don’t heal.

Having a trusted dermatology provider means you’re never facing questions alone. Whether it’s reviewing your self-exam findings or discussing the latest treatment options, ongoing communication helps keep your skin and your peace of mind healthy year-round.

Protect Your Health With an Annual Skin Check

A quick appointment once a year can truly make a difference for a lifetime. If it’s been more than 12 months since your last skin cancer screening, or if you’ve noticed a new or changing spot, now is the time to schedule.

Contact Peters Dermatology Center in Bend, OR, to book your annual skin exam with Dr. Gerald Peters, Ann M. Reitan, PA-C, or Ericka Luckel, PA-C, and take a proactive step toward protecting your skin and your health. Call 541-323-7546.