Doctors in Portland urge residents to check hard-to-see spots for skin cancer

Medical professionals in Portland are urging residents to examine areas of the body that are frequently missed during self-checks. The new guidance emphasizes that skin cancer can develop in locations beyond sun-exposed skin, including behind the ears, between the toes, and under the nails. Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, stated that these hidden spots make the condition difficult to detect without professional assistance or a partner's help. She noted that the scalp is a particular area of concern because it is difficult for patients to view themselves.

Rogers explained that clinicians evaluate lesions using the ABCDE criteria: asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter, and evolution. She said that a change in appearance, even if subtle, warrants medical attention. Gerontologist Sam Cradduck added that tracking changes over time is essential. Cradduck said, 'A millimeter can matter a lot.' She advised patients to monitor whether a mole has grown, lost symmetry, or begun to bleed. Rogers stressed that these signs matter even for spots that have been present for years.

The experts highlighted that skin cancer does not always present as a dark or irregular mole. Squamous cell and basal cell cancers often appear as pinkish, itchy patches or sores that do not heal. Rogers warned that these lesions can look benign, which makes them dangerous. She said, 'They don't always look scary. But that's what makes them so dangerous.' Melanoma, which is linked to intense sunburns, tends to spread rapidly. Rogers said, 'It spreads very quickly. So you definitely want to pay attention.'

Risk factors include fair skin, age, and family history. Rogers noted that UVA and UVB light is invisible and can pass through glass, meaning exposure occurs even indoors. She corrected the common misconception that people with darker skin do not need protection. Rogers said, 'Yes, you need sunscreen.' Sunscreen protects the DNA in skin cells from damage. In addition to sunscreen, sun-protective clothing such as rash guards and wide-brimmed hats can reduce exposure.

Aging expert Amy O'Rourke shared her own diagnosis to illustrate the need for thorough checks. She visited a dermatologist for a brown spot on her cheek. A full-body scan revealed a squamous cell carcinoma on the top of her head, which she treated with surgery. O'Rourke said that approximately three-quarters of her family has had skin cancer. She attributed the risk to both genetic and environmental factors. Rogers suggested that patients check their insurance plans, as some cover an annual dermatology exam similar to a well-woman visit. Aging well coach Katherie Ambrose recently underwent a full-body scan, and her husband did the same.

Patients are encouraged to request a full-body exam and ask about mole mapping during their annual visit. Mole mapping allows doctors to track changes in skin lesions over time. The medical team emphasized that early detection is the primary tool for managing the disease. Rogers said that patients must look everywhere because the cancer can hide in plain sight. The recommendation is to combine self-exams with professional checks to catch changes before they progress.