Skin Cancer: Types and Prevention
Skin cancer is the leading form of cancer in the United States. More than 1 million cases of non-melanoma cancer, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are diagnosed each year. Skin cancer is defined as the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells on the human body and left unchecked could spread to various other organs and tissues. As our skin is the largest organ of the body, we should all be knowledgeable about this dangerous and sometimes deadly form of cancer.
Non melanoma cancers develop in the epidermis which is the outer layer of skin or cover internal and external body surfaces. The majority of these cases appear in areas that are directly exposed to the sun, like the face, neck, back and hands. These cancers rarely spread to other body parts. Cancers that develop in the epidermis are generally visible with the naked eye which makes early detection possible. Basal cell carcinoma is characterized by raised, fleshy tumors with a symmetrical nature. They are often mistaken for sores that haven’t healed. Squamous cell carcinoma on the other hand is characterized by red, scaly or crusty patches on the skin that can bleed.
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and is generally sun related. It accounts for around 60,000 newly diagnosed cases and the majority of skin cancer related deaths in the United States. It is also the most common form of cancer in young people aged 20-39. This cancer develops in the melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigmentation called melanin, which helps to protect our bodies from harmful sun rays. Melanoma commonly appears in a large, asymmetrical area with irregular borders and color variations. Typically brown and black looking, these lesions can change shape, color and even elevation.
Great care should be taken for those individuals with a family history of skin cancer and people with fair and light complexions, as they have less melanin than darker skinned individuals. Steps that can minimize one’s chances of contracting skin cancer include, avoiding unprotected or excessive exposure to the sun, wear sunscreen at all times, wear clothes and hats for protection, and avoid artificial tanning or sun lamps. People should also avoid tobacco related products, seek immediate medical attention for burns and be aware of any vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Our skin protects our muscles, bones and internal organs from dangerous outside elements. We should do the same for our skin and reduce our risk for skin cancer.
If you enjoyed this article, please bookmark it at del.icio.us »
This entry was posted on Monday, September 1st, 2008 at 11:15 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
