What is Skin Cancer, Its Symptoms and How to prevent it?
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. It is caused by the damage to the DNA of skin cells caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
There are three main types of skin cancer:
1. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually appears as a small, raised bump on the skin.
2. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It usually appears as a scaly or crusty patch on the skin.
3. Melanoma is the least common but most serious type of skin cancer. It can appear as a new mole or a change in an existing mole.
Symptoms of Skin Cancer
The symptoms of skin cancer can vary depending on the type of cancer. However, some common symptoms include:
- A new growth or change in an existing mole
- A sore that does not heal
- A scaly or crusty patch on the skin
- A red, scaly patch that itches
- A bleeding or crusting growth
- How to Prevent Skin Cancer
There are a number of things you can do to help prevent skin cancer, including:
- Limit your exposure to UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds.
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, when you are outdoors.
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Get regular skin checks from your doctor.
- If you notice any changes in your skin, such as a new growth or a change in an existing mole, it is important to see your doctor right away. Early detection and treatment of skin cancer is important to improve the chances of a cure.
