Things You Must-Know about Skin Cancer

Ultraviolet (U.V.) rays from the sun are the main reason behind skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, with millions of cases detected every year. Most common and serious types of skin cancers are non-melanoma and melanoma cancer.

Skin cancer develops primarily on areas of sun-exposed skin, including the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms and hands, and on the legs in women. But it can also form on areas that rarely see the light of day — your palms, beneath your fingernails or toenails, and your genital area.

Skin cancer affects people of all skin tones, including those with darker complexions. When melanoma occurs in people with dark skin tones, it's more likely to occur in areas not normally exposed to the sun.

So, here are some skin cancer related facts that you should know about to help you protect yourself and your loved ones.

Non-melanoma skin cancers:

Basal and squamous skin cancer is also known as non-melanoma skin cancer. They usually have their origin in the basal and squamous cells from where they get their name. These cells are found in the outer layers of the skin. They mostly develop on sun exposed areas such as lips, hands, neck and the face. They can be cured if detected and treated early.

Melanoma skin cancer:

This particular type of skin cancer begins in the cells (melanocytes) that produce skin coloring pigment known as melanin. Melanin protects the deepest layer of skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Melanoma cancer is a result of overexposure to the U.V. rays. But this type of skin cancer possesses a much more serious threat to life than any other.

A few causes of skin cancer:

• Here are some certain and probable triggers of skin cancer:
• Unprotected or overexposure to U.V. sun rays.
• Fair-skinned people are more susceptible to damaging sun effects, especially those who experience red and patchy skin during sun exposure.
• Unnatural sun tanning, with sunlamps and sunbed, also increase risks of skin cancers.
• Severe sun burns in the past can be another reason of skin cancer.
• It can also be hereditary, though it follows no strict pattern.
• Prolonged consumption of synthetic chemicals (pesticides and herbicides) along with food or water is also a probable cause for skin cancer.
• Persistent contact with coal tar, pitch, arsenic compounds and nuclear radiations can damage the outer skin cells to a large extent.
• High levels of harmful chemicals such as cadmium, lead, mercury and zinc in drinking water also lowers skin resistance.

Skin cancer symptoms:

• Minor changes are to be noted carefully, as these can be symptoms of skin cancer. Such as:
• A small lump (spot or mole) that is shiny, waxy, pale in color, and smooth in texture.
• A red lump (spot or mole) that is firm
• Rough and scaly patches on the skin.
• Flat scaly areas of the skin that are red or brown.
• Change in the size or color of a mole.
• New growth spots or discolored mole.
• Oozing, bleeding or variations in the look of a lump or knot.
• Spreading of pigmentation to other parts of body, beyond its borders.
• Constant changes in sensation, ranging from itchiness to pain.

Lowering the risks of skin cancer:

• Here are some ways to lower the risks of skin cancer:
• Avoid direct exposure of the sun between 10am to 4pm
• Even when you are outdoors, try to stay in shade as much as possible.
• Always apply sunscreen lotions during the day. Reapply the sunscreen after every two hours.
• Avoid direct exposure to U.V. rays. Always keep protected gear, such as hats and stoles, handy.
• During summers, always opt for comfortable clothing in fabrics like cotton and linen.
• Keep your body and skin hydrated. Drink water as much as possible.
• Always keep sunglasses with you, which can provide optimal protection to your eyes and the sensitive skin around it.
• Avoid artificial sun tanning, with the use of sunlamps and sunbed.
• Always make sure that your drinking water is properly purified. Either use a RO purifier system or boil your drinking water.

It is important to reiterate that skin cancer is one of the most commonly found and dangerous form of cancer. But, if you look out for signs and follow strict precautions you can lower its effects. So, it is important to go for timely check-ups just to be on the safer side.