Skin cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the skin. It occurs when the body's immune system is unable to repair or destroy abnormal cells that have developed in the skin. There are several types of skin cancer, but the three most common are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
 |
| Image Source: Google Photos |
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and it usually develops on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, ears, and scalp. It typically appears as a small, raised bump that is pearly or translucent in color.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. It typically appears as a rough, scaly, or crusty red or pink patch on the skin. It can develop anywhere on the body, but it most commonly appears on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, and scalp.
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, and it begins in the pigment-producing cells of the skin. It can appear as a dark, irregularly shaped mole, but it can also appear as a new, unusual-looking spot on the skin. Melanoma can be fatal if not detected and treated early.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from indoor tanning beds, genetic predisposition, viral infections, and other environmental factors. The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect the skin from UV radiation, by avoiding sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen with a high sun protection factor.
Types Of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the skin. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of skin cancer and starts in the basal cells, which are the cells at the bottom of the epidermis. Basal cell carcinoma usually appears as a small, raised, pearly bump on the skin, and it typically grows slowly.
Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of skin cancer starts in the squamous cells, which are the cells at the top of the epidermis. Squamous cell carcinoma can appear as a scaly, red patch on the skin, and it can also form a lump or sore.
Melanoma: Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and starts in the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce pigment in the skin. Melanoma can appear as a dark, irregularly shaped mole on the skin, and it can also appear as a new, unusual-looking spot on the skin.
If you notice any changes in the appearance of a mole or spot on your skin, or if you have any other symptoms of skin cancer, it is important to consult with a medical professional as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of skin cancer can improve the chances of successful outcomes.
 |
| Image Source: Google Photos |
Read Also:- What Is Dengue Fever? Symptoms & Causes
Skin Cancer Symptoms
The symptoms of skin cancer can vary depending on the type of skin cancer and its location on the body. Some common symptoms of skin cancer include:
A new spot or sore on the skin that doesn't heal: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma can all appear as a new spot or sore on the skin that doesn't heal.
A change in the size, shape, or color of a mole or other spot on the skin: Melanoma can cause a mole or other spot on the skin to change size, shape, or color.
A sore or spot that bleeds or becomes crusty: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma can all cause a sore or spot on the skin to bleed or become crusty.
A rough or scaly patch on the skin: Squamous cell carcinoma can cause a rough or scaly patch on the skin that may be red or pink in color.
A firm, pearly bump on the skin: Basal cell carcinoma can cause a firm, pearly bump on the skin that may be white, pink, or flesh-colored.
A dark, irregularly shaped mole on the skin: Melanoma can cause a dark, irregularly shaped mole on the skin that may be black or brown in color.
It's important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to consult a medical professional if you notice any changes in the appearance of a mole or spot on your skin or if you have any other symptoms of skin cancer. Early detection and treatment of skin cancer can improve the chances of successful outcomes.
Read Also:- What Is Malaria Fever? Symptoms & Causes
Skin Cancer Causes
Skin cancer is caused by mutations in the DNA of skin cells. These mutations can be caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in the cells and can cause them to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor.
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of skin cancer and are usually caused by long-term exposure to UV radiation. Melanoma is a more aggressive form of skin cancer that is usually caused by exposure to UV radiation, but it can also occur spontaneously.
Risk factors for skin cancer include having fair skin, a history of sunburns, a family history of skin cancer, and a weakened immune system. People with a lot of moles, freckles, or other signs of sun damage on their skin are also at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, can also increase the risk of skin cancer.
It's important to note that exposure to UV radiation from the sun is the most preventable risk factor for skin cancer. Avoiding prolonged exposure to UV radiation, wearing protective clothing and sunscreen, and seeking shade during the peak hours of sun exposure can help reduce your risk of skin cancer.
Read Also:- What Is Cancer? & Different Types Of Cancer
