Skin Cancer Symptoms and Causes

Skin Cancer Awareness: Early Signs, Risk Factors, and Care 

As per a study in 2023, out of 2,638 registered cancer patients in India, almost 3.18% consist of skin cancer. The skin is the human body's first line of defence since it is the first thing that gets exposed to UV rays, toxic environmental agents, and other external factors. These tend to damage the skin’s DNA, resulting in uncontrolled cell growth and potentially cancer.     

Skin cancer symptoms can showcase some minor signs on the skin that can easily be ignored. However, by recognizing the signs early, one can opt for medical intervention, which leads to positive health outcomes.  

Let's explore the types of skin cancer, the symptoms of each, and the importance of early detection for effective treatment. Recognizing these signs can save your life. 

Table of Contents 

What is Skin Cancer? 

Symptoms of Skin Cancer 

Causes of Skin Cancer 

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer 

Types of Skin Cancer  

Diagnosis of Skin Cancer  

Medications for Treating Skin Cancer 

Tips to Prevent Skin Cancer 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is Skin Cancer? 

Skin cancer results when skin cells start growing in an abnormal way, creating a malignant tumour. Most skin cancers are caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.  

Thus, it is found in areas of the body that are most exposed to sunlight, including the face, chest, arms, and hands. These abnormal cells can grow, leading to a cancerous lesion over time. It usually appears as a suspicious mole, patch, or spot. Most skin cancers are treatable if they are detected early. 

What are the Symptoms of Skin Cancer? 

Skin cancer appears in different ways. Here are the common skin cancer signs and symptoms:  

• A hard bump 
• Brownish scar 
• Open sores on the skin 
• Changes in appearance of the skin 
• Sore or itching moles 
• Development of new features in pre-existing moles 
• Bleeding or oozing from a mole 
• Scaly patches of red skin 
• Red sores in the mouth or on the ears 
• Development of new spots on the skin 
• A shiny or waxy bump on the face, ears, or neck. 
• Unexplained growths or sores on the skin 
• A painful or itchy sore on the skin 
• A red, solid bump 
• The development of a large brown mark, typically with rough edges 
• A flaky or rough patch with irregular borders 
• A sore that does not heal and may bleed  

How is Skin Cancer Caused? 

Skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of gender or skin colour. The primary reason for skin cancer is excessive exposure to the sun, particularly when it leads to sunburn and blisters. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can harm the DNA in skin cells, and this may cause the development of abnormal cells. Such cells can grow out of control, leading to cancerous tumours. 

What are the Risk Factors of Skin Cancer? 

Mentioned below are the common risk factors that can increase the chances of skin cancer in people: 

• Women tend to be diagnosed with skin cancer more often before the age of 50, and men have increased rates after 50. 
• People who spend most of their time outside, either for work or play. 
• Individuals have a past history of sunburns. 
• Those who live in an area where the sun is strong or at a high altitude. 
• People who use tanning products, such as lotions or sprays, or go to tanning parlours. 
• Anyone who has light-coloured eyes, blond or red hair, and fair, freckled skin. 
• People suffering from actinic keratosis, the rough, scaly patches with dark pink or brown colouration that are a precursor to skin cancer. 
• Individuals who have multiple moles or moles that are not typical in shape. 
• People with a family history of skin cancer. 
• Anyone who has undergone an organ transplant. 
• Those who have received UV light treatment for some skin condition like eczema or psoriasis. 

What are the Types of Skin Cancer? 

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, mostly caused by excessive exposure of skin to the sun. The three main forms are: 

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) 

This is the most common type of skin cancer, usually appearing as a flesh-coloured, pearl-like bump or a pink patch. It most often happens to people with fair skin after a long period of sun exposure, especially on the head, neck, and arms.  

Even though it develops gradually, if untreated, BCC can cause damage to nerves and bones. Basal skin cancer symptoms include a waxy bump, a flat scar-like mark, or a sore that usually bleeds. 

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) 

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most prevalent form of skin cancer that appears as a red, firm lump, a scaly spot, or a sore that opens and closes. These signs are also part of the symptoms of skin cancer on the face since SCC usually forms in areas that are typically exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and arms.  

Another place where skin cancer can occur is the scalp. Approximately 3% to 8% of all squamous cell carcinomas arise in this region. If left untreated, skin cancer symptoms on the scalp can drill deeper into tissues and metastasize.  

Melanoma 

The most serious form of skin cancer frequently develops from a pre-existing mole or as a new, unusual dark spot. It can quickly spread to other parts of the body. Recognizing the ABCDE warning signs (asymmetry, border irregularity, colour variation, diameter, evolving) is crucial for early detection and treatment.  

The signs and symptoms of melanoma skin cancer include changes to the shape, size, colour, or border of pre-existing moles or the appearance of new spots. Other symptoms can be itching, bleeding, or a lesion that does not heal. Melanoma can also affect nails. The skin cancer symptoms on nails include dark streaks, nail discolouration, etc.   

How to Diagnose Skin Cancer? 

Diagnosis of skin cancer generally includes two major methods: imaging tests and biopsies. These methods determine the existence of cancer cells and evaluate the scope of the condition. 

Skin Biopsy 

A skin biopsy is a procedure where a tiny amount of tissue is taken out from the affected area to view under a microscope. This is the most accurate method of diagnosing skin cancer. The following are various biopsy methods: 

• Excisional Biopsy: The whole growth is excised with a small border of normal tissue. This procedure is sometimes enough to cure the skin cancer as well. 
• Shave Biopsy: The top layers of the lesion are shaved off with a tiny blade, usually employed for superficial skin cancers. 
• Punch Biopsy: A tiny, round instrument is employed to excise a core sample containing deeper layers of the skin. 

Imaging Tests 

Imaging tests are used in order to find out if skin cancer has spread from the skin to internal organs or bones. These are painless and non-invasive and are best for aggressive skin cancers such as melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma. Some common imaging tests are CT scans (Computed Tomography), X-rays, and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). 

Best Medications for Treating Skin Cancer 

Here are some of the most effective medications for treating basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): 

• Vismodegib (Erivedge)  
• Sonidegib (Odomzo) 
• Imiquimod (Aldara) 
• Cisplatin  
• 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)  
• Doxorubicin 
• Capecitabine  
• Retinoids  

Tips to Prevent Skin Cancer 

To reduce the chances of being affected by symptoms of skin cancer, consider these strategies: 

• Limit your exposure to direct sunlight during the afternoon hours. 
• If you need to be outdoors, wear sunglasses, hats, and lightweight clothing that covers your skin. 
• Apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 daily, and do so 30 minutes before going outside. 
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming. 
• Conduct a self-examination of your skin at least once a month. 
• Schedule a skin check-up with a skincare specialist yearly.  

Skin cancer can be a fatal disease if left undetected, but being aware of skin cancer symptoms and taking preventive measures increases the chances of positive outcomes. Self-examinations and periodic skin check-ups are a must in identifying the earliest possible signs of skin cancer.  

Since the treatment of cancer is a costly matter, having access to a health insurance plan is ideal. Star Health Insurance provides the Star Cancer Care Platinum Insurance Policy to help you cope with the expense of skin cancer treatment. With its ample coverage, this policy offers peace of mind for you and your loved ones.  

Call now and safeguard your health and finances! 

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