Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer globally, yet it's also one of the most preventable and treatable forms when detected early. The disease arises from the skin cells and typically develops due to DNA damage that leads to mutations, mostly caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Skin cancer arises from the skin's cells and is heavily influenced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. It is categorised mainly into three types: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma, each varying significantly in symptoms, risk, and severity.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are several types of skin cancer, each with distinct characteristics and risks:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
- The most common form of skin cancer. BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. It typically appears as a slightly transparent bump on the sun-exposed skin, such as the head, neck, and arms.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
- The second most common type, which can develop into a large mass and sometimes spread to other organs. It usually appears as a hard, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
- Melanoma:
- The most dangerous form of skin cancer due to its ability to spread rapidly to other organs if not treated at an early stage. Melanoma manifests as a change in an existing mole or as a new, unusual-looking growth on the skin
Symptoms of Skin Cancer
Each type of skin cancer has its signs and symptoms:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma
- Open sores, red patches, shiny bumps or scars.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma:
- Scaly, red patches, open sores, warts, or elevated growths with a central depression.
- Melanoma:
- Asymmetry:
One half of the mole does not match the other. - Border:
Irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred edges - Colour:
Changes in color, including different shades of brown or black, sometimes patches of pink, red, white, or blue. - Diameter:
The spot is larger than 6mm across (about ¼ inch – the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller than this. - Evolving:
The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
Risk factors
Key risk factors include:
- Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from sunlight or tanning beds.
- History of sunburns, especially early in life.
- Fair skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes.
- Family history of skin cancer.
- Personal history of skin cancer.
- A large number of moles or unusual moles.
- Weakened immune system.
- Exposure to toxic substances, such as arsenic.
Prevention & Treatment
Preventive measures are critical for skin cancer:
- Avoiding sun exposure during peak sun hours
- Wearing protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses, and using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Regularly examining the skin for changes.
Treatments vary depending on the type and stage of skin cancer and may include:
- Surgical options::
- Removing the tumor and some of the surrounding tissue.
- Mohs surgery:
- Precisely removing skin cancer layers while sparing the maximum amount of healthy tissue.
- Cryosurgery:
- Using liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy abnormal cells.
- Radiation therapy and chemotherapy
- Used for advanced cases or cancers that are difficult to treat surgically.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT):
- Combines light with chemicals to destroy cancer cells.
Topical treatments: Creams or ointments used for superficial skin cancers.
- Topical treatments:
- Creams or ointments used for superficial skin cancers.
Early detection of skin cancer significantly enhances treatment success and survival rates. Regular skin examinations and protective measures against UV light are essential strategies in preventing and managing skin cancer. In the UK, healthcare providers offer various support and treatment options, making it critical for individuals to seek medical advice if any skin changes occur. Awareness and education about the risk factors and symptoms of skin cancer are key to preventing this common yet preventable disease. In the UK, numerous resources and support systems are available to assist individuals in managing their skin health, ensuring early detection and effective treatment of skin cancer.
