Skin Cancer

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. It occurs when skin cells grow uncontrollably due to DNA damage, often caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.

Types of Skin Cancer

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, usually appearing as a small, shiny bump or nodule on the skin.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Often appears as a red, scaly patch, wart-like growth, or an open sore.
3. Melanoma: The most dangerous form, which can develop in an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin.

Risk Factors

• Excessive Sun Exposure: UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds is the primary cause.
• Fair Skin: People with lighter skin are at higher risk.
• Family History: A family history of skin cancer increases your risk.
• Age: The risk increases as you age.
• Immune Suppression: Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system can increase risk.

Prevention Tips

• Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can help protect your skin.
• Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Avoid Tanning Beds: They emit harmful UV radiation that can increase your risk of skin cancer.
• Regular Skin Checks: Examine your skin monthly for any new or changing spots, and see a dermatologist annually for a professional skin exam.

Early Detection

Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Look for the ABCDEs of melanoma:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole doesn’t match the other.
• Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
• Color: Varies from one area to another; shades of tan, brown, black, sometimes white, red, or blue.
• Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or elevation, or new symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or crusting.

Treatment Options

• Surgery: Removing the cancerous tissue.
• Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer.
• Targeted Therapy: Using drugs that target specific genes or proteins involved in cancer growth.