If you were to develop skin cancer would you be able to spot it? The good news is that skin cancer is very treatable if detected early. You don?t have to live in Australia or Arizona to develop any one of three different kinds of skin cancer. Anyone can. Consequently it's recommended that you see a doctor once a year to have your skin examined.
Between these visits, you should learn to spot the warning signs of skin cancer. There are three types of skin cancer: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Let's take a look at each one.
Basal cell is the most common form. This kind of cancer usually shows up on areas of the body most exposed to sunlight, such as your face, neck, chest and hands. But you can develop basal cells anywhere on your body. Basal cell carcinoma manifests itself as red marks that may go away and then show up again. Usually tiny blood vessels are seen in the sore with an ulceration in the middle. Basal cell carcinoma is caused by exposure to UV radiation or sunlight.
The second most common form is squamous cell carcinoma. Men tend to get these more often than women. Squamous cell carcinomas can appear anywhere on the body. These cancers appear as patches of skin that are rough, bleeding, or crusting and resist healing.
Malignant melanoma is the least common form but the most deadly. It can spread throughout the body, not just on the skin. Thousands of people die from melanoma every year. Melanoma can manifest itself in different colors and be presented with an irregular border. Skin will be flaky and peel off. The area may itch and burn. Malignant melanoma may develop from a mole or merely on clear skin. The best way to determine if a spot is cancerous it to know your ABCDs: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color, and Diameter. All are clues to determine if you have skin cancer. Melanomas are usually asymmetrical or uneven if you were to divide the area in half. The borders of a cancerous lesion are irregular and jagged. Melanomas usually have different colors present including black, white, tan, red, and blue. Diameter or size is also a clue. Moles are more likely to turn cancerous if they are larger than one quarter inch in diameter. Any change in a mole is a danger sign and a good reason to have it checked by a doctor.
Skin cancer is a completely preventable disease. Sun exposure should be limited. Try to avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when it is the strongest. If you must be in the sun wear a large brimmed hat and try to protect your body with clothing covering the arms and legs. Many manufacturers, especially outdoors athletic companies, offer clothing with UVA and UBA protection built in.
Of course, be sure to wear an effective sunscreen all the time. Look for those with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for the best protection. Sunscreen should be broad based so it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Here is an essential tip to prevent skin cancer: reapply sunscreen often, especially after swimming or exercising. One time does not do the job. Apply often. And another tip: do not skimp on overlooked areas like ears, hairline, and feet. One million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year. Be sure to prevent yourself from being one of them.
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