Skin cancer means any cancer that begins in the skin. It can develop on any part of your skin and spread to nearby tissues and organs if the disease multiplies. This article will give you an insight into facts you need to know about skin cancer. There are two types of skin cancer namely:
- Melanoma: Develops in skin melanocyte cells. Melanocytes are skin cells that generate skin’s brown pigment.
- Keratinocyte Cancer: it develops in skin cells called keratinocytes. It has two subtypes called basal carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Other types of skin cancer are:
- Merkel cell carcinoma
- Kaposi’s sarcoma
- Skin adnexal tumors
- Cutaneous lymphoma
Facts You Need To Know About Skin Cancer
- Skin Cancer Is Not Only Caused By UV Rays
UV rays are one of the major factors leading to skin cancer. Cancer development is highly affected by genetics. Genetics plays a key role in this. If someone along your family history had skin cancer you have a chance of developing it too. According to research indoor tanning booth sessions are a major cause of skin cancer development.
- Skin Cancer Can Affect People With Darker Skin Tones
People with darker skin tones are also prone to developing skin cancer. If not diagnosed at the appropriate time this disorder can spread and become harmful and difficult to treat as well. Early detection and regular checkups of skin are important as any person of any skin tone is prone to developing skin cancer.
Also Read – Effects Of Sun Exposure – Healthy Or Unhealthy?
- Excessive Sun Is Not The Only Cause Of Skin Cancer
Sunscreens with high SPF value help to protect the skin but do not prevent skin cancer 100%. Skin cancer can develop in any region of your body including your armpits, toes, and even private parts. You must consider getting annual and regular skin checkups with a professional so if you are prone to this it can be diagnosed and treated in its early stages before it spreads any further. Risks of developing skin cancer increase with age.
- Watch Out For Big Moles
Irregular and abnormally big moles are a symptom or sign of possible skin cancer. Look out for pimples, huge rashes, bumps, and lumps that do not heal properly. At times they feel painful to touch and bleed from time to time too. A few signs to look out for and distinguish abnormal moles for signs of skin cancer are:
- Moles that change in size constantly.
- Large and big spots on the skin.
- Irregular edges.
- Pink, blue or brownish-white patches are alarming indicators. Irregular colours in moles is also a warning sign you must look out for.
Spreading pigment, sores that don’t heal, noticeable fast-growing spots, bleeding, and oozing are some major signs to watch out for.
- Skin Cancer Can Affect Your Eyes
Eye melanoma is a form of skin cancer. It exists as a small freckle in the eye. Eyelids and the surrounding area are prone to developing skin cancer. Many cases of skin cancer are eye melanoma.
Treatments To Opt For
The goal is to remove cancer before it spreads to other parts of the body. Popular treatment options are:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery
- Immunotherapy
Tips To Prevent Skin Cancer
- Avoid the sun at peak hours
- Apply sunscreen
- Look for cool shady places
- Protect eyes
- Avoid artificial UV light
- Get regular checkups done.
Final Words
These are a few facts you need to know about skin cancer. You must be precautious and get regular checkups done timely to prevent this disease.
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