Skin cancer is among the most prevalent forms of the disease, even though more than 5 million individuals in the USA are diagnosed with the form of cancer every year. Since the number of cases is still increasing, it is appropriate that we learn more about the types, causes, risk factors, and ways by which skin cancer can be prevented.
What is Skin Cancer?
Carcinoma is a tumor that occurs on the outer layer of the skin. Mainly, it is due to the derivation of DNA in cells through ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, tanning beds or some other external sources such as chemicals.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are several types of skin cancer diagnosed at skin cancer clinics, but the most common are:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
BCC makes up about 80% of all skin cancers, making it the most prevalent type. It is commonly seen as a small, pearly or white or skin coloured nodule or as a flat discolored area that may look scarred. BCC is very curable when recognized earlier; however, it can develop and spread to neighboring tissues and bones.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
Superficial squamous cell carcinoma is the second most frequent type of skin malignancy and constitutes 16% of all SCCs. Common presentations include a firm, red nodule that is often ulcerated or a scaly skin eruption that may crust over, bleed, heal and then ‘break open’. Like any other cancer, SCC also has the ability to extend and infiltrate the neighboring tissues as well as metastasize to other body organs if left uncontrolled.
Melanoma:
Melanoma is an altogether different variety and is a skin cancer type which is rarer but more fatal than both BCC and SCC. It is a type of cancer that results from the rapid unplanned division of a type of cell called melanocyte. Melanoma can be a new spot that develops on the skin or an existing shiny, dark, and smooth-skinned mole that changes in size, shape, or color. It is best treated early, for the disease may spread to other parts of the body if it is not attended to on time.
What Causes Skin Cancer?
The main risk factor for skin cancer is ultraviolet (UV) light. There are several sources and contributing factors, including:
- UV Radiation: UV radiation, including sunlight and artificial light such as tanning booths, is one of the causes of skin cancer. UV radiation affects the skin cell and causes changes in the DNA material which may cause the development of skin cancer.
- Genetics: Certain people may be at a greater risk of skin cancer caused by inherited genes that predispose the skin to harm by UV radiation or which reduce the body’s ability to produce anti-cancer cells.
- Moles: With many moles or atypical moles, it is possible to develop skin cancer, as such moles contain potentially cancerous cells.
- Weakened Immune System: Patients with immune suppression like HIV/AIDS are more prone to certain types of skin cancer, like the Kaposi Sarcoma.
- Exposure to Certain Chemicals: It is thus found that some chemicals like arsenic and certain types of hydrocarbons lead to skin cancers if exposure is taken to higher levels.
- Age: It points out that skin cancer risk rises with age because the skin’s susceptibility to UV harm rises as well.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase the risk:
Fair Skin:
One of the major symptoms that may lead to skin cancer is having very sensitive skin featured by extremely white color, which easily develops a burn and never tans.
History of Sunburns:
Skin cancer risk rises if one or more severe sunburns have been suffered, particularly when a child or an adolescent.
Excessive Sun Exposure:
Ultraviolet radiation exposure, in particular, if one neglects the use of protective clothing and gear when under the scorching sun, greatly enhances the possibility of developing skin cancer.
Tanning Bed Use:
When tanning under tanning beds that transmit UV radiation, the risk of skin cancer is realized.
Living in Sunny or High-Altitude Climates:
Sunny places and those places with high altitudes where the sun’s rays are more potent are some of the potential ways of contracting skin cancer.
Family History of Skin Cancer:
If one of your relatives had the same problem, then there might be genetic predispositions to skin cancer, raising your risk.
Personal History of Skin Cancer:
If you had skin cancer previously, the chance of getting another skin cancer sometime in the future increases.
Many Moles or Atypical Moles:
This is so because numerous colorectal polyps or atypical moles may contain cancerous or pre-cancerous cells that predispose an individual to skin cancer.
How to Prevent Skin Cancer
To prevent skin cancer most of the measures done focus on preventing exposure to UV rays and avoiding exposure to other risks. Here are some essential prevention strategies:
Protect Your Skin from the Sun:
When you are outside the house, be sure to protect your skin and eyes from UV radiation by wearing long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
Avoid Tanning Beds:
Tanning beds emit UV radiation that may cause skin cancer or any other skin diseases. One way to reduce your risk is by not using tanning beds or indoor tanning booths at all.
Be Aware of Your Medications:
Certain medicines may make your skin more sensitive to sun rays and therefore put you at higher risk of skin cancer. Always discuss the possible side effects of your medicines with the prescribing physician.
Check Your Skin Regularly:
Look for changes in the size or color of moles, freckles, or any other skin spots, and see your doctor right away if you have any of these changes. Symptoms to watch for include size, shape or color changes and any new growths or sores that do not heal.
See a Dermatologist or Skin Cancer Clinic:
Get a skin check by a dermatologist or skin cancer clinic, or get skin exams at least once or twice a year. Skin cancer can be fatal if not diagnosed early enough and treated.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and you should try to make sure your skin is protected from the sun. Learning about the different types of skin cancer, potential causes, risk factors, and ways to prevent it may greatly improve the condition of your skin and your overall health. Avoid using sunbeds, apply sunscreen, have your skin checked for any signs of irregularity and visit your dermatologist or skin cancer clinic regularly.
