Skin cancer is a common form of cancer with different types. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common, usually appearing on areas exposed to the sun. Squamous cell carcinoma is more aggressive and likely to spread. Melanoma is less common but more deadly. Prevention includes avoiding strong sun rays, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and staying in the shade.
Skin cancer, the uncontrolled growth of skin cells, is one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer. There are different types of skin cancers.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It is a slow-growing tumor that usually appears in patients 40 years of age and older. Basal cells are normal skin cells that can develop into cancerous cells. Basal cell cancer usually occurs on areas of the body or scalp that are regularly exposed to the sun. People with light skin, hair, and eye color are at a higher risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, as are those who have been overexposed to X-rays.
Although this type of skin cancer can spread to nearby tissues, basal cell carcinoma does not normally spread to distant parts of the body. A skin lesion that has a pearly or waxy appearance and is flat or slightly raised could indicate basal cell carcinoma. The lesion might be white or light pink, flesh-colored or brown, and may contain visible blood vessels in the lesion or nearby skin.
Another warning sign is a sore that doesn’t heal or a lesion that looks like a scar, but isn’t related to a skin lesion. It is important to see your doctor about any suspicious skin lesions. The border, color, size and lack of symmetry sometimes indicate a cancerous growth.
Squamous cell carcinoma occurs in the middle layer of the epidermis or skin. It is more likely to spread to another area of the body and is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma. It often begins after age 50 and can occur in normal skin or in a burned or injured area.
Melanoma is not as common, but more deadly than other skin cancers. There are four types of melanoma and they vary according to where on the body they are likely to occur, the age group they affect, and the groups of people most likely to be affected. Depending on the type of melanoma, surgical removal of the lesion is usually required. More severe forms may require radiation treatments or chemotherapy.
One of the best ways to prevent skin cancer is to avoid the strongest rays of the sun, basically from 10am to 4pm. You should also use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of XNUMX or higher daily. Other preventative methods include wearing sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats. Children should be protected with sunscreen and also out of the midday sun. Spending time outdoors, but in the shade, also reduces your chances of getting skin cancer.
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