Skin Cancer

When most people hear the term “skin cancer” they immediately think about melanoma, which is the most dangerous and most well-known type of skin carcinoma. There are actually three main classifications of skin cancer:

1) Basal Cell Carcinoma – The first symptom of this type of skin cancer is usually a small, fleshy bump on the skin. This type of skin cancer is actually pretty easily detected, making treatment also quite easy. Basal cell carcinoma accounts for more than 90 percent of skin cancer cases in the United States.

This type of skin cancer does not spread to other parts of the body, making it a bit less dangerous than melanoma. It needs immediate treatment, however, as the cancer can spread downwards, causing damage to bone and cartilage. It should also be noted that, like other types of skin cancer, Basal cell carcinoma also comes from sun exposure and bumps appear first in exposed areas like the face, neck and arms.

2) Squamous cell carcinoma – this type of skin cancer is a bit more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma. This type of skin cancer actually spreads to other parts of the body and the first symptoms come in the form of red, scaly patches of skin. However, this type of skin cancer is highly treatable as long as it is detected early and handled carefully.

3) Malignant Melanoma – this type of skin cancer accounts for the most deaths of all skin cancer types. In fact, 75 percent of skin cancer fatalities are caused by malignant melanoma. The skin cancer type may be rate, but it is quite dangerous.

Early detection is important to make sure that treatment is obtained in time. The first sign of malignant melanoma is a malformed or bumpy mole. The mole can also be itchy or it can bleed. These warning signs should be taken seriously and require immediate medical consultation.

Early detection of malignant melanoma is very important as there is actually a 99% chance of successful treatment if the skin cancer is found early.

Preventing skin cancer always seems to be connected to sun exposure. Light-skinned people who seem to have trouble getting a tan are most susceptible to various types of skin cancer. If you are looking for the golden, slimming look associated with a good tan, you might want to consider spray-on options instead.

Remember that every bit of exposure counts. Buy skin care lotions that have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or above. This will help you make sure no ultraviolet radiation damages your skin. Another important thing to remember is the fact that ultraviolet radiation, which causes skin cancer, actually travels through clouds, so walking in the open during overcast days isn’t as safe as you might think.

The key thing to remember about skin cancer is that bit can be treated as long as it is detected early. So it would be best if you stay informed and be constantly vigilant. Skin cancer is also preventable: the right precautions might just save your life.

Skin Cancer

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