There are different types of skin cancer caused by the growth of abnormal cells in a person’s skin tissue, leading to the growth of many cells, which may be cancerous or non-cancerous.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, skin cancer is the most common cancer type in the United States. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and 9,500 people are diagnosed every day.
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So, which type of skin cancer is most dangerous?
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Types of Skin Cancer
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Others include Merkel cell carcinoma, Kaposi sarcoma, sebaceous gland sarcoma, and Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
The basal cell carcinoma occurs in areas exposed to the sun, such as the neck, ears, scalp, back and face. It has a waxy, lesion or pearly bump that can disappear and reappear.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
The squamous cell carcinoma appears in the areas exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, neck. Back, face and neck. However, despite its similarities with basal cell carcinoma, it begins in the squamous cells, which are in the outermost part of the skin.
Melanoma
Melanoma affects the cells that give skin its color. In women, it frequently appears on the leg, but in men, it appears on the face or torso. It’s characterized by an asymmetrical mole or spot that has color changes and an irregular border.
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Symptoms and Causes
The most common sign of skin cancer is a change in skin, particularly when mole or a growth appears. Others include:
- A new mole that changes in shape and size.
- A pearly or waxy bump on your face.
- A pink, red or brown flat patch.
- Crusty sores with depression in the middle.
- Scars on the skin.
- A rough, scaly lesion that’s itchy.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
Although anyone can develop skin cancer, you’re at a high risk if:
- Spend a lot of time working in the sun.
- Live in a high-altitude climate.
- Have light-coloured eyes, blonde or red hair.
- Have many moles.
- Have a family history of cancer.
- On medication that suppresses or weakens the immune system.
- Have an organ transplant.
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How is Skin Cancer Diagnosed?
The doctor will engage you in a consultation to find out about your skin condition. If he or she suspects skin cancer, they might put you through a biopsy. After a pathological test, the doctor will tell you if your lesion is cancerous or not.
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What Treatments are Available?
The treatment depends on the types of cancer. Sometimes, a biopsy can remove the cancer, but other treatments involved include cryotherapy, excisional surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and photodynamic therapy.
Prevention of Skin Cancer
To protect yourself from skin cancer, follow the practical steps:
- Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Protect your face and ears by wearing hats.
- Protect your arms and legs by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- Monitor your skin for regular changes in shape, color and size.
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Conclusion
The different types of skin cancer remind us that different people can be susceptible to any of these illnesses. The article explains how each presents itself, the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. The good thing is that skin cancer is highly preventable by taking the practical steps outlined.
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