Are you having a new mole more often? Or do you have and old mole that is growing? It might be a symptom of skin cancer. We listed the symptoms of skin cancer and how can you prevent it.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the skin. It is the most common type of cancer, accounting for more than half of all cancer diagnoses. There are several types of skin cancer, but the most common are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and usually appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, scalp, and neck. It typically appears as a small, shiny bump or a red, scaly patch.
Squamous cell carcinoma also usually appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin and appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
Melanoma is a less common but more dangerous type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body. It often appears as a new or changing mole that is asymmetrical, has an irregular border, varies in color, is larger than a pencil eraser, or is changing in shape or size.
Skin cancer can usually be treated successfully if it is caught early, so it's important to be aware of any changes in your skin and to seek medical attention if you notice anything unusual.
Types of skin cancer
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): This is the most common type of skin cancer, and it typically appears on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and hands. BCC usually grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): This type of skin cancer also usually appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin, and it can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma. SCC may spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
- Melanoma: This is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and it can occur anywhere on the body, even in areas that are not exposed to the sun. Melanoma often appears as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. It can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not caught and treated early.
Other less common types of skin cancer include Merkel cell carcinoma, cutaneous lymphoma, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP). These types of skin cancer are usually more aggressive and require specialized treatment.
Causes of skin cancer
The primary cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, which can lead to the development of cancer. However, there are other factors that can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including:
- History of sunburns: People who have had multiple severe sunburns in their lifetime are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
- Fair skin: People with fair skin, light eyes, and red or blond hair are more likely to develop skin cancer because they have less melanin, which provides some protection against UV radiation.
- Family history: Skin cancer can run in families, so if you have a parent or sibling who has had skin cancer, your risk may be higher.
- Age: As people age, their skin becomes less able to protect itself from UV radiation, which increases the risk of skin cancer.
- Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those who have had an organ transplant or who have HIV, are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
- Exposure to radiation: Exposure to radiation, such as from medical treatments, can increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
Skin cancer symptoms
Here are 20 common symptoms of skin cancer:
- New, unusual growth or bump on the skin
- A sore that does not heal or repeatedly comes back
- Spot or sore that is painful, itchy, or bleeds
- A mole that changes in size, shape, color, or texture
- An irregularly shaped or asymmetrical mole
- A mole with uneven color or a dark spot in the center
- Mole larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- A mole that has an irregular border or edges
- Mole that is raised or has a rough surface
- A spot or mole that is different from other moles on your body
- A mole that develops after age 20
- Redness or inflammation around a mole or spot
- Scaly or crusty patches on the skin
- A spot or mole that looks shiny or waxy
- Spot or mole that is blue, black, or brown
- A spot or mole that is multicolored or has uneven coloring
- Spot or mole that is located on the palms, soles of the feet, or under the nails
- A spot or mole that is growing or changing quickly
- Sore or spot that is not responding to normal treatments
- A spot or mole that is accompanied by other symptoms, such as itching, tenderness, or pain.
It's important to perform regular skin checks and see a dermatologist if you notice any of these symptoms or unusual growths on your skin. Early detection and treatment of skin cancer can improve outcomes and prevent cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.
Skin cancer prevention
Preventing skin cancer involves minimizing exposure to UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds. Here are some tips for reducing your risk of developing skin cancer:
- Wear protective clothing: When you are outdoors, wear clothing that covers your skin, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats.
- Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating.
- Seek shade: Stay in the shade during peak hours of sunlight, which is usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can be even more damaging to the skin than the sun.
- Perform regular skin checks: Check your skin regularly for any changes, and see a dermatologist if you notice any unusual growths or changes in moles.
- Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses that block at least 99% of UV rays to protect your eyes and the skin around them.
- Be extra cautious near water, snow, and sand: These surfaces reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your risk of sunburn.
When to see a doctor?
It's important to see a doctor if you notice any signs or symptoms of skin cancer, such as a new or changing mole, growth, or soreness on your skin.