Skin cancer rates are on the rise. Sun exposure and ozone layer depletion are part of the problem. This article will briefly disuss the three main skin cancers seen.
The American Academy of Dermatology states that over ninety percent of all cancers occur on sun exposed skin. They cite that the higher cancer rates that are being seen today, versus many years ago, are due to the reduction of ozone in the atmosphere. The ozone layer is a filter in the atmosphere that helps to cut down on UV light exposure. The three main cancers that are seen are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Fair skinned individuals, those from Northern Europe and those with a family history of skin cancer are the most prone to getting it.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
The National Cancer Institute indicates that basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer. Our skin has two main layers and several types of skin cells. The top layer is the epidermis, while the second layer is called the dermis. The epidermis contains three types of cells. The flat cells on the surface are squamous cells. There are also round cells called basal cells and cells that give off color called melanocytes. Basal Cell Carcinoma appears usually as a small, crusty bump on the face, head and neck or as a flat pink or brown colored lesion on sun-exposed extremities. If caught early it can be treated very effectively, usually by the excision of the lesion.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a firm, red nodule or as a rough, scaly lesion. These lesions may itch and bleed readily. As with basal cell carcinoma, the key is to catch the cancer in its early stages. If treated early, the prognosis for a complete recovery is excellent.
Melanoma
The National Cancer Institute cites that of the three skin cancers, melanoma is the most serious. Melanoma, sometimes known as cutaneous or malignant melanoma, has a tendency to spread very quickly to other parts of the body via the body’s lymphatic systems. This disease must be caught very early, for recovery. There are certain signs that indicate a possible melanoma. These signs are sometimes referred to as the ABCD rule. A stands for asymmetry. Melanomas are rarely symmetrical. If one side doesn’t match the other, this can be one of the warning signs of having melanoma. B stands for border. The border of the lesions are usually ragged and not well defined. C stands for color. Most melanoma lesions don’t exhibit uniform color shades. They appear usually as black or dark brown lesions, but can also be tan,red,white or blue. D stands for diameter. A lesion that changes in size and grows up to or over six millimeters is a warning sign as well. Treatment for melanoma consists of removing the lesion, along with some extra tissue, followed by chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
The key to skin cancers is prevention and early detection. When outdoors one must adequately protect themselves from overexposure to the sun and exercize sun safety. Use copious amounts of sunscreen, SPF fifteen or better, and wear protective clothing. Examine the body when possible to identify unusual looking moles or pigmentations and track their potential growth. Finally get a regular dermatological examination, especially if you live in areas with higher sun exposure or have a family history for skin cancer.
