With skin cancer numbers on the rise, early detection and prevention are extremely important. When examining yourself for possible skin cancers, look for asymmetrical growths with unusual shapes or colors, and for moles that have changed shape, color, or texture. It is a good idea to make a self-exam a regular part of your schedule.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
About 80% of all skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas. Though they rarely spread to other parts of the body, when untreated, they can cause damage to the skin and underlying tissue. They are commonly found in light-complexioned, light-haired people who sunburn quickly. Prolonged exposure to the sun over many years makes a person more likely to develop this type of skin cancer.
A basal cell carcinoma may look like a bump, nodule or sore, but sometimes occur as a flat growth. When untreated, these growths usually bleed, scab over, then begin the process again. The cure rate is high--over 95%. The carcinoma is usually removed surgically, or by freezing.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
About 16% of all skin cancers are squamous cell carcinomas. When treated, the cure rate and method is similar to basal cell carcinomas, but when untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body, and may result in death.
Squamous cell carcinomas may appear as red, scaly patches on the skin or as nodule-like bumps. Common locations for this type of skin cancer include the lips, face, and ear. It is also more commonly found on Caucasians who have had significant sun exposure throughout their lives.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer. The same skin cells which produce the pigment which allows skin to tan, melanin, produce the cells which form melanomas. It is important to treat a melanoma early, as it will spread to other parts of the body.
While a melanoma may simply appear, frequently it begins in or near a mole. For this reason, it is important to monitor any mole for changes in shape, size, or texture, so that it can be evaluated and treated quickly.
More importantly, avoiding chronic exposure to the sun decreases the risk of developing melanomas. While this cancer also occurs more frequently in light-skinned individuals, it is also found in darker-skinned people. If your family has a history of melanoma, you are also at greater risk.
Warning signs for melanoma include: scaly, bleeding, or oozing skin, changes in a mole, pain, itchiness, or tenderness.
Melanomas are usually removed surgically. In more severe cases, chemotherapy and/or radiation may be required.
Detection and Prevention
As mentioned before, self-examinations are very important in catching skin cancers before they become serious. Steps you can take to prevent skin cancer in yourself or in your family include:
- keep children's skin protected--studies show much of the damage we do to our skin is done before the age of 20
- avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, especially burning and blistering
- always wear sunscreen (even on cloudy days) and reapply often
- cover up with long sleeved, tightly woven clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat
- use a sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
- avoid the midday sun, when the rays are strongest
