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Screening for Skin Cancer

Key points

  • Tell your doctor about any unusual moles or changes in your skin.
  • Talk to your doctor if you are at increased risk of skin cancer.

Screening recommendation

a doctor examining a mole on a woman's hand
Report any unusual moles or changes in your skin to your doctor.

The US Preventive Services Task Force has concluded there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against routine screening (total body examination by a doctor) to find skin cancers early. This recommendation is for people who do not have a history of skin cancer and who do not have any suspicious moles or other spots.

Checking your skin regularly

Checking your skin for moles regularly will help you find any suspicious changes. Be sure to check less visible areas of your skin like the soles of your feet. Tell your doctor about any unusual moles or changes in your skin. Also talk to your doctor if you are at increased risk of skin cancer.

For more information, refer to the National Cancer Institute's Skin Cancer Screening.

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Content Source:
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; Division of Cancer Prevention and Control