A Crisp Overview of Skin Cancer..

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is kind of malignant cancer which spreads in the outer layer or epidermis of human skin.

Types of Skin Cancer

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma- it forms in the base of the outer layer of the skin.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma- it forms in the squamous cell of the skin. These are the flat cells which form the surface of the skin.
3. Melanoma- it forms in the melonocytes of the skin. These cells prepare the pigments which are responsible for the color of the skin.

Causes of Skin Cancer

• Over exposure to ultra-violet rays of the sun
• Heredity
• Use of tanning booths
• Environment
• Immunosuppressant
  

  Image via Wikipedia (A basal cell carcinoma, a most common type of skin cancer)

  

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  Image via Wikipedia (Histology of nodular basal cell carcinoma)

Signs & Symptoms

• Rough and scaly patches on skin
• Change in skin color
• Skin ulcers
• Non-healing sores
• Shiny or waxy lumps on the skin
• Bleeding sores

Preventions

There are some preventive measures which can be undertaken to reduce the risk factors of skin cancer. They are described as under;-

• Too much exposure to sunlight can cause skin burn and also contribute to skin cancer. The ultra violet radiations of the sun leads to wrinkles, premature ageing and sagging of skin, which may further enhance the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, try to avoid excess exposure to direct sunlight.
• Reduce the time of outdoor activities in afternoon. The sun rays are at peak during 11am to 4 pm. So avoid going outside during this time period, especially in summers.
• Apply an effective sun-screen lotion on the exposed parts of the body every day. Sun screens form a protective layer over the applied areas and minimize the harmful effects caused by UV rays. Use a sun screen having SPF of 15-30. Apply it evenly on face, nose, ears, neck, hands, toes and lips 15-20 minutes before going outside.
• Always wear long sleeved shirt, full pants and broad hats to protect your hands, legs and face from direct exposure to sun rays. There are some specially designed clothes are available in the market which known as photo protective clothing. You can ask to your dermatologist about them. Don’t forget to wear sun glasses also.
• Avoid the use of tanning-beds and artificial tanning booths. They discharge UV rays which are very dangerous and can cause skin cancer.
• Always take a healthy diet which includes vitamin D supplements.
• Regularly consult your doctor for a complete skin examination.
• Self examine your skin regularly. If you notice any changes in your skin color or texture, immediately consult a dermatologist.
• watch this video on how to check yourself for skin cancer