Hasselt: (Brussels Morning) – Skin cancer is common but treatable if caught early. Jessa Hospital’s ‘One-spot-check’ program helps patients get quick dermatologist appointments to identify and address suspicious skin changes.
Skin cancer is a big deal since it makes up about 40% of all cancer cases. Melanoma is the most dangerous type because it can spread but basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are more common and can also be serious if not treated early. Dermatologists say it’s crucial to check your skin regularly and see a doctor if you notice any strange changes in moles or spots like size, shape, colour or texture or if new spots pop up. Finding it early can really help with treatment and getting better.
How Jessa Hospital’s ‘One-Spot-Check’ Program Expedites Skin Cancer Screening?
At Jessa Hospital in Hasselt they have a program called ‘One-spot-check’ to make it quicker for people to get checked for skin cancer. Normally, there can be long waits to see a dermatologist which is worrying because some skin cancers can grow fast. This program helps speed up the process so people can get checked sooner. At Jessa Hospital in Hasselt they have a way to check skin spots faster. People with suspicious spots can see a dermatologist within a few weeks. The dermatologist looks closely at the spots checking for changes in size, shape, colour or texture that could signal skin cancer like melanoma basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma. This helps find skin cancer early when treatment works best reducing the need for more serious treatments. The ‘One-spot-check’ program makes it easier for patients to get quick help improving their care and health outcomes. It’s important not to panic right away because not all spots are problematic but it’s best to get them checked if you see such a spot. Around 90% of melanomas are usually found early which is a positive thing.
It has been said that melanoma is a severe type of skin cancer. It’s not as common as other skin tumors but can be very aggressive. The other skin tumors are less harmful and can be cured by removing them. Melanomas need more intense treatment, so it’s important to act promptly to improve recovery chances as Mebis advises. Early information is also better for the patient’s peace of mind. When people spot worrisome spots they can get anxious. That’s why it’s helpful to see the dermatologist promptly for reassurance and quick answers.
How to protect yourself from Skin cancer?
To avoid skin cancer it’s crucial to shield yourself from the sun. Wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen generously to uncovered areas. Remember applying sunscreen once isn’t enough reapply every 3 to 4 hours. It’s vital to avoid the sun between 12 and 4 pm as that’s when the sun’s rays are strongest and most harmful. Just like in Australia,where they stress this advice it’s essential for people in Belgium to follow suit and stay out of the sun during those hours.
