Did you know skin cancer is the most common form of cancer? This why skin cancer awareness is crucial in today’s society. With millions of cases diagnosed worldwide each year, knowing of the signs of skin cancer can lead to better prevention, early detection, and treatment, which ultimately saves lives.
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer occurs when skin cells undergo abnormal growth, often due to DNA damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. The three most common types of skin cancer are:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, BCC originates from the basal cells in the skin’s epidermis. This cancer typically appears as a small, shiny bump or a pinkish growth. While BCC rarely metastasizes, it can cause significant local damage if not treated.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Forming in the squamous cells, SCC usually presents as a scaly, red patch, or an open sore. If left untreated, SCC can spread to other parts of the body.
- Melanoma: Melanoma develops in the melanocytes, which produce pigment in the skin. Responsible for most skin cancer deaths, melanoma can spread rapidly to other organs. It often appears as a new mole on the skin or changes in an existing mole.
Early Detection is Key
Early detection of skin cancer is vital for effective treatment and improved survival rates. When diagnosed early, most skin cancers can be treated successfully with minor surgical procedures or topical treatments. However, if left undetected, skin cancer can progress to more advanced stages, requiring extensive surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, and can ultimately be fatal.
- Regular Skin Checks: You should perform monthly self-examinations of your skin, looking for any new or changing moles, growths, or lesions. Remember the ABCDE rule to help you identify potential melanomas:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
- Color: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.
- Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
- Annual Skin Exams: An annual body scan by a dermatologist is recommended, especially if you have a history of skin cancer or if you are at higher risk due to fair skin, excessive sun exposure, or a family history of certain skin cancers.
Prevention Strategies
By implementing prevention strategies into your daily life, you can help to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Sun protection is key in the line of defense.
- Avoid direct sun exposure Seek the shade when possible and limit the amount of time you are in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) when UV rays are the strongest.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can shield the skin from UV rays.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer.
While May is officially designated as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, true awareness with any lasting impact must continue every month of the year to reduce the number of skin cancer cases and mortality rates. Understanding your risk, practicing prevention strategies, and early detection are ways to protect yourself. Make an appointment for an annual skin exam with Dr. Ogunsiakan at Esse Dermatology in Charlotte, NC.