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Skin Cancer
Skin Cancer- A guide to Symptoms, Risks, Prevention and Cure
Skin Cancer- Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Cure
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, caused primarily by damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning devices. It includes basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma — the latter being the most dangerous if not caught early.
As a medical oncologist, I’ve seen how simple steps like sun protection, regular skin checks, and awareness of warning signs can prevent skin cancer or allow it to be treated in its earliest, most curable stages.
By educating yourself about skin cancer, you’re taking a vital step toward protecting both your health and the health of your loved ones.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when mutations in the DNA of skin cells cause them to multiply uncontrollably. Unlike many cancers that develop deep inside the body, skin cancer often starts as visible changes on the skin, making early detection possible with self-exams and regular skin checks.
Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive type; often appears as a pearly bump or a sore that doesn’t heal.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Can appear as a scaly patch or red nodule; may spread if untreated.
Melanoma: The most dangerous type, developing in pigment-producing melanocytes; can spread rapidly to other organs.
Less common types: Merkel cell carcinoma, Kaposi sarcoma, and others.
Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer
The “ABCDE” rule helps in identifying suspicious moles or spots (mainly for melanoma):
A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other.
B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or jagged edges.
C – Color: Uneven colors (brown, black, red, white, or blue).
D – Diameter: Larger than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
E – Evolving: Any change in size, shape, or color over time.
Other warning signs include:
A sore that does not heal
New growths or unusual bumps
Red, scaly patches that bleed or crust over
Pain, itching, or tenderness in a mole or spot
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
Excessive exposure to UV radiation (sun or tanning beds)
Fair skin, light hair, and light eye color
History of sunburns, especially in childhood
Living in sunny or high-altitude regions
Family or personal history of skin cancer
Weakened immune system
Age (risk increases with age, though melanoma is also common in younger adults)
Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer can often be detected early with regular skin self-exams and professional skin checks. Tools include:
Dermatologist examinations
Dermatoscopy (special magnifying device for skin lesions)
Biopsy to confirm diagnosis if a suspicious lesion is found
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical advice if you notice:
A new mole or growth that looks suspicious
Changes in an existing mole (size, color, shape, or sensation)
A sore that does not heal within a few weeks
Persistent skin irritation, pain, or bleeding spots
Treatment for Skin Cancer
Treatment depends on the type, size, and stage of the cancer:
Surgical removal (excision): Most common and effective treatment.
Mohs surgery: Specialized surgery for removing skin cancer layer by layer while preserving healthy tissue.
Cryotherapy: Freezing small cancers with liquid nitrogen.
Topical treatments: Creams or gels with anti-cancer drugs for early-stage cancers.
Radiation therapy: For cases where surgery isn’t an option.
Targeted therapy and immunotherapy: Especially for advanced melanoma.
Some Facts vs Myths about Skin Cancer
Myth: Only fair-skinned people get skin cancer.
Fact: Anyone, regardless of skin color, can develop skin cancer, though risks differ.Myth: Skin cancer only happens in sunny climates.
Fact: It can occur anywhere, even in colder or cloudy regions.Myth: Sunscreen is unnecessary on cloudy days.
Fact: Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds.Myth: Skin cancer is always visible.
Fact: Some skin cancers can develop in less visible areas, like the scalp, under nails, or inside the mouth.
