Skin cancer involves the abnormal growth of skin cells. It is the result of mutation in the DNA of the skin cells, and is mainly caused by overexposure to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. However, skin areas that are not usually exposed to sunlight can also develop skin cancer.
If detected early, skin cancer can be successfully treated.
There are 4 main types of skin cancer:
It is the most common form of skin cancer. It arises from the basal cells present in the epidermis of the skin (the outermost layer of the skin). Basal cell carcinoma usually develops on skin that is exposed to sunlight, such as the skin of the scalp, face, neck, ears, shoulders and back. It rarely spreads to other parts, but can be fatal if it does.
It is the second most common type of skin cancer. It arises from the squamous cells present in the epidermis of the skin. It usually develops on sun-exposed areas such as the skin of scalp, face, ears, neck and hands. It can also develop on skin that has been damaged by chemicals, burned, or exposed to X-rays. If not treated early, squamous cell carcinoma can grow deep into the skin and spread.
It is considered the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It originates from the cells that give colour to your skin, known as melanocytes. It may develop from an existing mole or one that is newly formed.
Melanoma usually gets triggered due to UV rays, or tanning lamps and beds. It is curable if detected and treated early.
In the West, melanoma appears commonly on the skin, especially over sun-exposed areas of the skin. In Asia, melanoma develops more commonly in the hands and feet.
It is a rare skin cancer that is highly aggressive in nature, growing at a fast rate. It is found on the head, neck and trunk region just below the skin, and in hair follicles.
Some other rare types of skin cancer are cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, Kaposi’s sarcoma, microcystic adnexal tumours, and sebaceous carcinoma.
Symptoms of skin cancer vary according to the type of skin cancer.
Skin changes could be warning signs of skin cancer or another underlying health condition. If you have concerns, make an appointment with your doctor to determine the cause of your skin changes.
The main cause of skin cancer is overexposure to sunlight, especially if it causes sunburn or blistering. The UV rays from the sun damage the DNA of skin cells, resulting in skin cancer.
Frequent skin exposure to UV tanning beds and lamps, as well as chemicals such as coal and tar, may also lead to skin cancer.
It is possible for skin cancer to also develop on skin that is not usually exposed to sun. There are a number of risk factors that may contribute to skin cancer:
There is no proven way to prevent skin cancer. However, you can adopt the following habits to possibly reduce the risk of skin cancer:
Most skin cancers are curable when diagnosed early. Read on to learn more about Mohs micrographic surgery and how it is effective in treating skin cancer with minimal scarring.
Learn more about the different types and warning signs of skin cancer that you shouldn't ignore.
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