Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. It arises when the DNA within skin cells is damaged, leading to uncontrolled cell division. While there are various types of skin cancer, the most common include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Symptoms of Skin Cancer
Early detection is crucial for successful skin cancer treatment. Be vigilant for the following warning signs:
- Asymmetry: One half of a mole or birthmark doesn’t match the other.
- Border: The edges of a mole or birthmark are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
- Color: The color is uneven, with shades of brown, black, tan, and sometimes white, red, or blue.
- Diameter: The diameter is larger than ¼ inch (about 6 millimeters) — about the size of a pencil eraser.
- Evolving: A mole or birthmark is changing in size, shape, or color.
Other potential symptoms include:
- A new growth or sore that doesn’t heal
- A sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and then heals, but keeps returning
- A scaly, red patch
- A shiny, pearly bump
- A flat, brownish-colored patch
Causes of Skin Cancer
The primary cause of skin cancer is excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. This includes both UVA and UVB rays. Other factors that can increase your risk include:
- Fair skin, blond or red hair, and blue or green eyes: These individuals have less melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color and provides some protection from UV radiation.
- A history of sunburns, especially severe sunburns in childhood: Sunburns damage DNA in skin cells, increasing the risk of skin cancer later in life.
- A family history of skin cancer: If a close relative has had skin cancer, your risk is higher.
- A large number of moles: People with many moles, especially atypical moles (moles that are different in size, shape, or color), have a higher risk.
- Weakened immune system: Conditions such as HIV/AIDS or medications that suppress the immune system can increase the risk.
- Exposure to certain chemicals: Some chemicals, such as arsenic and coal tar, can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Prevention of Skin Cancer
The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect your skin from the sun:
- Seek shade: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during midday hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Wear protective clothing: Cover your skin with long-sleeved shirts, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
- Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
- Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that increases the risk of skin cancer.
- Perform regular self-exams: Check your skin monthly for any new or changing moles or other suspicious spots.
- See a dermatologist for regular skin checks: Dermatologists are trained to detect skin cancer early, when it is most treatable.
Remember: Early detection and treatment of skin cancer significantly improve the chances of a full recovery. If you notice any suspicious changes on your skin, consult a dermatologist promptly.