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iVillage guide to skin cancer
You might feel pretty smug about how often you stay out in the sun. You probably think you have nothing to worry about because you use sunscreen, wear a hat and only take one beach holiday a year, right? Well, the truth about sun damage is that it has a cumulative effect, so anyone who has ever spent time in the sun may be vulnerable to skin cancer. The key to fighting this disease is early detection. Dermatologists recommend having your moles checked annually by a doctor and doing a monthly self-exam. If you notice any new developments or changes in the size, shape or colour of moles, freckles, skin tags, brown spots, bumps or nodules on your body, see your doctor right away to make sure it's nothing serious.
Types of skin cancer
There are three basic types of skin cancer. Here is a profile of each:
Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common form of skin cancer, which usually appears on areas of the body that are most exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck and head. Originating on the top layer of the skin, or epidermis, this type of cancer appears as a small, round lump that is pink or flesh-coloured with a smooth texture. It may, in some cases, bleed and form a crust. Although slow growing and unlikely to metastasise (develop somewhere else) to other parts of the body, this type of skin cancer can spread under the skin and to the bones and organs if left untreated.
If caught early, the cure rate of basal cell carcinoma is around 95 per cent. Treatment involves surgical biopsy and removal - under a local anaesthetic - of the cancerous lesion and the area around it. Your doctor may also decide to directly treat the growth with small doses of radiation. However, after the growth is removed, it can reappear, so pay close attention to the area. After having basal cell carcinoma, your chance of getting another lesion is increased by 20 to 30 per cent.
Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of skin cancer is usually found on the rim of the ears, face, lips or mouth. It appears as an ulcer or sore, similar to a red patch of skin or a lump that hasn't healed. Since it can occur in the mouth, it's more common in people who smoke. The second most common type of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma grows faster and is more likely to spread than basal cell carcinoma, especially when it's close to the mouth. There is a 90 per cent cure rate if detected early, and treatment is the same as with basal cell carcinoma.
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