Dr Howard Stevens, a skin cancer specialist , explains risk factors for melanoma and techniques for screening, or diagnosis.
Over recent decades, the UK has seen skin cancer rates increase notably, through greater exposure to holiday sun. You may have seen Herts media articles suggesting the time poor, cash rich population of the county is vulnerable.
We recognise that residents are far more varied than a press profile but Hertfordshire health data does validate the claim. Rates of skin cancer are higher than surrounding areas and well above the national average.
One comforting factor is the development of unique centres to offer support, including Skin Care Network. Accurate, early diagnosis is available and vital to successful care, as is up to date treatment.
They come from well equipped clinics and staff with experience. Neither is skin cancer always treated by specialists of one discipline. Consultant dermatologists, surgeons, oncologists, pathologists and dedicated nurses have a part to play.
This is why our clinic offers a multidisciplinary team, devoted to skin cancer care. From monitoring to diagnosis, to minimally invasive treatment.
The Latest Technology
Skin cancer treatment in Hertfordshire should be based on making sure you see leading specialists, although adding modern science to their skills is an asset.
Digital dermoscopy (skin surface microscopy) to examine skin imperfections and confocal microscopy, to literally look beneath the skin are great advances. Helping to avoid more intrusive methods.
One of our consultants is a leading lecturer on non invasive imaging techniques of the skin. Ensuring the medical profession understand the accuracy and pain free examination they can bring.
The latest equipment also brings confidence for patients and good treatment outcomes. Effective care stems from correct diagnosis, part of ensuring skin cancer care is delivered on a personal basis.
Individual Treatment
A good skin cancer consultant will do more than examine you. They should talk with you, to understand the effects your condition and treatment have on your life.
Honesty also matters, yet they are often genuinely in a position to reassure you. Skin cancer may be on the rise but so is related knowledge and with early diagnosis, the cure rate is now high.
Skin cancer screening, such as mole mapping, or body imaging is a good idea for everyone. Specialist clinics can arrange these for patients after treatment.
Part of the personal support which should be offered. Skin cancer, even aggressive forms such as malignant melanoma are now eminently curable, treating you as a person is part of that success.
Skin Care Network Support
Our ability to offer a well qualified, multi faceted team should not be undervalued. Combined skills work well in any medical field, more so in a critical, fast developing area.
Having consultant dermatologists who specialise in skin cancer also matters. Beyond accurate diagnosis and the right treatment plan, they provide highly specialised care, such as Mohs surgery.
Our team will focus on the minimum treatment for maximum effect, laser surgery, or photodynamic therapy could be a solution. We believe you deserve the best care, to learn more, the options below may assist:
- See a detailed section devoted to Skin Cancer Treatment.
- Back to our overview on: Hertfordshire Dermatology.
- See clinic opening times, along with: A Map & Directions.
For in depth advice, or to discuss your needs, call 020 8441 1043 at any time.