During a skin cancer screening, a specialist – usually in a dermatology practice – examines the entire skin from head to toe, including the scalp, the spaces between the toes and, if desired, hard-to-see areas. Moles and pigment spots are assessed by size, shape, colour and any changes. The aim is to detect the three most common types – basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and the more dangerous melanoma – as early as possible.\n\nHow it works: After a short discussion about your history and sun habits, a full-body inspection follows. Suspicious moles are magnified using a dermatoscope, an illuminated lens. Notable spots can be photographed or recorded in mole mapping to compare changes over time. If there is suspicion, the spot is removed and examined in a laboratory.\n\nScreening is especially worthwhile for people with a fair skin type, many moles, previous sunburns, a family history, or when a mole changes. How often a check-up is advisable depends on your individual risk.\n\nWhat to watch for: Choose a dermatologist-led examination that includes dermatoscopy. Ask whether photo documentation is offered. Clarify cost coverage in advance, as it varies depending on your situation and insurance. A common mistake is having only individual moles checked instead of the whole skin.
Skin cancer screening
Skin cancer screening is a preventive examination in which a doctor systematically inspects moles and skin changes to detect skin cancer at an early stage. The goal is to identify suspicious spots before they become dangerous.
Example
A 42-year-old woman from Winterthur notices after the summer holidays that a mole on her back has darkened and itches slightly. She books an appointment at a dermatology practice, where her entire skin is examined with a dermatoscope. The suspicious mole is removed as a precaution and analysed in a laboratory – and because she has many moles, the specialist recommends a yearly check-up.
Frequently asked
From what age and how often should I have a skin cancer screening?
This depends on your personal risk. People with a fair skin type, many moles, previous sunburns or a family history of skin cancer should start earlier and go more regularly. Your doctor will determine a suitable interval together with you.
Does health insurance cover skin cancer screening?
That depends on your situation and insurance. When there is a concrete suspicion or symptoms, the examination and any follow-up are often handled differently from a purely preventive check with no symptoms. It is best to clarify cost coverage in advance with the practice and your insurer.
Does the examination hurt?
The skin examination with a dermatoscope is painless and usually takes only a few minutes. If a suspicious mole needs to be removed, this is done under local anaesthetic so that you feel no pain.