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Skin cancer is a condition where abnormal cells grow in the skin tissues. Normally, old skin cells die off, and new ones replace them. But when this process is disrupted, often by exposure to sunlight's ultraviolet (UV) light, cells can grow rapidly, leading to cancer. These abnormal cells may be benign (noncancerous) or cancerous. If left untreated, skin cancer can spread to other parts of the body, but when caught early, it’s often curable. Here’s what you need to know!
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer usually develops on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun. The scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms and hands are most common. It can, however, form on parts of the body that rarely see light! Palms, beneath your fingernails or toenails, and the genitals are also at risk. That's why it is important to know what to look for.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: This form usually shows up in the neck or face. It begins in the basal cells, a type of skin cell that produces new ones as old cells die off. Sunlight can cause damage to these basal cells. Instead of dying off and being replaced, they continue to multiply and continue growing. Basal cell carcinoma may appear as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat flesh colored or brown scar-like lesion, or a bleeding or scabbing sore that heals but then returns.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma starts in cells called squamous cells. The squamous cells make up the middle and outer layers of the skin. It typically shows up on sun-exposed skin like the scalp, hands, ears or lips. It can however show up on any part of the body. Similar to basal cell carcinoma, the cells that are damaged by the sun continue to reproduce instead of dying off. This form is typically not life threatening, but if untreated can lead to serious complications.
- Melanoma: Melanoma happens when healthy melanocytes, which are skin cells that make pigment, turn cancerous. This happens due to a mutation in their DNA, usually caused by the sun. Again, it typically forms on areas of the body that are exposed, like the arms, back, face and legs. Melanoma is life-threatening, but can be treated if caught early.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Depending on the type of skin cancer, there are different things to watch for.
Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma usually shows up as a change in the skin. This can be a growth or sore that won't heal, and typically looks like one of the following.
- Shiny, skin-colored bumps
- Brown, black, or blue lesions
- Flat, scaly patches
- White, waxy, scar-like lesions
Signs of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma can show up in a number of ways on the body. Again, it tends to develop on skin that has been badly damaged by the sun. Look for one of the following.
- Rough, reddish scaly areas
- Open sores, often with a raised border
- Brown spots that look like age spots
- Firm, dome-shaped growths
- Wart-like growths
- Small, horn-shaped growths coming from the skin
- Sores developing into an old scar
Signs of Melanoma
Melanoma often begins as a mole. Most people have moles, they are very common and when non-cancerous perfectly harmless. Typical moles are generally a uniform color. These may be pink, tan, brown or black. They are usually oval or round in shape, and smaller than 1/4 inch in diameter.
Some moles, however, are atypical and could be a sign of melanoma. If a mole is asymmetrical in shape, changes color, changes in size, has an unusual border, or has changing symptoms (such as new itchiness or bleeding) it could be cancerous. Melanoma can also be hidden in the body, or develop without presenting moles as a symptom. It is important to work with your doctor or dermatologist to track changes to your skin. If you are worried about it, get it checked!
Causes and Risk Factors
Anyone can develop skin cancer. Researchers agree that the single greatest danger to developing skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet rays. Going outside and getting some sun is healthy, but too much sun or a failure to protect yourself with clothing or sunscreen can be damaging. The CDC recognizes a few characteristics for people who are at a higher risk. They include:
- Having a lighter natural skin color
- Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun
- Blue or green eyes
- Blond or red hair
- Certain types and a large number of moles
- A family history of skin cancr
- A personal history of skin cancer
- Older age
Understanding skin cancer and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce your risk and ensure early detection and treatment if necessary. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice!