Skin Cancer: Types, Causes, Treatment, Symptoms, Prevention
Introduction
In the United States, skin cancer is the most frequent type of cancer. One of the most common types of cancer in the world is skin cancer. It happens when skin cells proliferate abnormally and create tumours. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or other sources, such as tanning beds, is the leading cause of skin cancer. UV light can damage skin cells' DNA and trigger mutations that lead to cancer. Some people are more likely than others to develop skin cancer, depending on their skin type, family history, and lifestyle factors. I will examine the three major kinds of skin cancer in this essay: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. I'll go over their features, symptoms, and remedies. I'll also give you some pointers on how to avoid and diagnose skin cancer early.
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Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is defined as the abnormal proliferation of skin cells, which is typically caused by the sun's damaging rays. Skin cancer is classified into three types: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma.
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) appears as a flesh-colored, pearly lump or pinkish area of skin. It most commonly appears on the head, neck, and arms, but it can appear anywhere on the body. If not treated promptly, it can spread deeply and cause nerve and bone damage.
- Skin cancer is the second most frequent type of cancer. It frequently appears as a red hard bump, scaly patch, or a sore that cures and then reopens. It forms on skin that is frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, ears, and hands. If not treated promptly, it can potentially grow deep and spread to other parts of the body.
- Melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer. It frequently appears as a new black spot on the skin or develops in a mole. It can appear anywhere on the body, including locations that are not exposed to sunlight. It affects people of all skin tones. If not diagnosed and treated early, it can quickly spread to other organs.
Other uncommon kinds of skin cancer include Merkel cell carcinoma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
Causes of Skin Cancer
The following are some of the risk factors for acquiring skin cancer:
- Skin tone is light. People with less skin pigment (melanin) are more vulnerable to UV damage and are more likely to burn or tan.
- A sunburned history. Having one or more blistering sunburns as a kid or adolescent raises the risk of developing melanoma later in life.
- Excessive exposure to the sun. Spending too much time outside without sufficient sun protection might result in cumulative UV damage and raise the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer.
- Beds for tanning. Tanning beds, booths, and sunlamps expose the skin to high doses of UV radiation, raising the risk of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.
- Mutations in the human genome. Some people inherit or develop mutations in genes that influence skin cell growth and repair, such as the BRAF gene. These alterations can render skin cells more susceptible to malignancy.
- A family tree. Having a close relative with melanoma raises your chances of getting it.
- Immune system is weakened. Skin cancer is more prevalent in those who have illnesses or therapies that impair their immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or organ transplantation.
Skin Cancer Signs and Symptoms
Skin cancer symptoms differ based on the type and location of the tumour. Some common warning signals to check for are:
- A new or changing mole, freckle, or skin spot
- A wound that is not healing or bleeding
- A pearly, waxy, scaly, crusty, or red growth
- A hard, smooth, or rough lump
- A discoloured, itchy, or painful area of skin
A physical examination and a biopsy of the suspicious lesion are usually used to make a diagnosis of skin cancer. A biopsy is a procedure that includes taking a tiny sample of tissue and examining it under a microscope for evidence of cancer cells.
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Cancer Treatment for Skin
Skin cancer treatment is determined by the type, stage, and location of the tumour, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Among the most prevalent therapeutic options are:
Surgery. To achieve full cancer cell eradication, the tumour and some surrounding normal tissue are removed. A scalpel, a laser, an electric needle, or liquid nitrogen can be used in surgery.
Radiation treatment. High-energy rays or particles are used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumours. Radiation therapy can be administered both externally and internally (brachytherapy).
Chemotherapy. This method use medications to either destroy or prevent cancer cells from developing. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, intravenously, or topically (on the skin).
Immunotherapy. To combat cancer cells, drugs that boost the immune system are used. Immunotherapy can be administered through injections, tablets, or lotions.
Therapy that is targeted. This method employs medications that target specific molecules or processes involved in cancer cell growth and survival. Targeted treatment can be administered either orally or intravenously.
Photodynamic therapy is a type of light therapy. This method employs a light-sensitive medication that accumulates in cancer cells, making them more susceptible to a type of light that destroys them.
Skin Cancer Prevention
Skin cancer can be avoided by limiting UV exposure and protecting the skin from sun damage. Among the preventive measures are:
- Avoiding sun exposure between the hours of 10am and 3pm
- Wearing SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapplying it every two hours
- When going outside, wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
- Avoiding tanning beds and other artificial UV radiation sources
- Regularly inspecting the skin for changes or abnormalities
- Consultation with a dermatologist for any suspected lesions
