The Three Types of Skin Cancer and How To Prevent Them
Skin cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cellular diseases if detected early. However, 3 million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer annually, and if left untreated, it can expeditiously develop into a deadly condition.
Risk factors range from sunlight or tanning bed induced UV exposure, a skin’s predisposition to burning and geographical location, but ultimately, anyone can get skin cancer. While there are various forms of skin cancer, below are the most common examples and ways to detect and prevent them.
The most typical type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma. About 80 percent of all skin cancers are of the basal cell carcinoma variety. BCC forms in the basal cells of the epidermis, or the lower layer of the skin. Though it can develop in all types of skin color, for the most part, BCC occurs most often in people with fairer skin. Extended exposure to harmful outdoor/indoor (tanning beds) UV rays lead to the development of pearl-like bumps or patchy skin, which is a symptom of cancer itself. If not detected early, basal cell carcinoma cancer can spread to the neighboring tissues and cause damage to the surrounding bones and nerves.
Two in ten of all skin cancers are of the Squamous Cell Carcinoma grade. Appearing at the outermost layer of the skin, SCC is the second most common form of skin cancer. Affecting those who have had a prolonged vulnerability to UV rays, SCC is treatable if caught early. Those with fair complexions are most susceptible and scaly patches, sores that heal but reopen and red firm bumps are among SCC’s most noticeable symptoms.
Affecting roughly 45,000 Americans a year, Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Melanoma develops in the pigment-creating cells, the melanocytes. Early diagnosis is imperative in treating Melanoma and preventing the volatile condition from spreading. Melanoma often grows into an unusual mole or as a rapidly developing new dark spot.
Your exposure to the sun doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom if you’re willing to take preventative measures. Minimizing your risk of potentially harmful sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer, can be maximized with these necessary protective actions.
While indoors, the principal threat to harming your skin to ultraviolet rays is if you elect to utilize a suntanning bed. UV tanning pods promote a dangerous and easily accessible avenue to skin damage, which can lead to cancerous cells. In addition to life-threatening hazards that tanning salon beds present, it can also lead to premature aging of your skin, by way of brown spots and wrinkles.
When outdoors, seeking shelter in the shade is an essential first step in combating skin injury. Though this isn’t practical in all outdoor situations, limiting your exposure in unobstructed sunlight is advantageous.
Covering up exposed skin to harmful rays is an ally in the fight against sunburns. High temperatures may not allow for a practical covering up of your whole body, but it’s essential to exercise caution. Wear wide-brimmed hats to cover your neck, ears, face, and head. UV blocking sunglasses are always a good idea when available.
If the setting calls for you to bare skin to sunlight, be sure to apply ample amounts of SPF 15 (at a minimum, 30 or higher is ideal) of broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen.
Self-examine your skin monthly and commit to yearly checkups with your doctor to catch any initial problematic signs of developing skin cancers. Early detection is a principal means in combating the disease and help expands your options for treatment.
When self-examining your skin unusual blemishes and moles may be a cause of concern, that should result in a timely doctors visit. Mole warning symptoms include; asymmetry, uneven colors, irregular or notched edges, the mole changes over time, and the width of the mole is more massive than half an inch.
Other risk factors include a family history of skin cancer, an immune system that’s weakened and being that of elderly age.
Always consult a board-certified dermatologist with any concerns. Erring on the side of caution will afford you peace of mind and the ability to identify any issues before they progress to needing medical intervention.
For more information visit Tim’s website: http://www.tcdermatology.com/personnel/tim-ioannides/
