Many different types of cancer begin in the skin. Some start as a mole that changes color, while others develop from a skin cell that is exposed to the sun. These skin cancers begin in a variety of places on the body, but are most common on areas of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun. Here are a few different types and the symptoms that may occur in each. Listed below are the three most common types of cancer in the skin.
Squamous-cell skin cancer is the second most common type and usually appears as a red, scaling patch on sun-exposed skin. It may also be a firm hard nodule, dome-shaped, or a growth in the epidermis. This type of skin cancer can spread throughout the body and become a mass if not treated promptly. Squamous-cell cancer is less deadly than melanoma, but is associated with congenital melanocytic nevi syndrome, which means the person has a higher risk of getting a cancerous nevi.
The most common type of skin cancer is basal-cell carcinoma. This type usually occurs on areas that are exposed to the sun, and can be treated with surgery or radiation. Squamous-cell cancer is less common than basal-cell cancer and can spread to other parts of the body. Squamous-cell cancer is the least common type of skin cancer, but it is still a serious condition that should be treated immediately.
Everyone is susceptible to skin cancer, but those with first or second skin are at highest risk. This is because people with first or second skin are typically the most sun-exposed, so it is particularly important for them to protect their skin year-round. They need to wear high-SPF sunscreen every day and limit their time in the sun. Sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses are an additional benefit. This type of skin cancer can also lead to cataracts or other complications, so if you have dark eyes, be sure to use sunglass lenses with UV protection.
People with light skin also tend to develop signs of aging much later than those with dark skin. Darker skin is also more resistant to surgical manipulation. It can also result in thicker scars. Surgical procedures in people with dark skin can also cause swelling that lasts longer than those in light-skinned people. Incisions in dark-skinned people are less likely to be visible. A dark-skinned person with a dark skin type can still undergo cosmetic surgery, although scarring and swelling may be more apparent.
The relationship between pigmentation and photo protection is complicated. POC are disproportionately more likely to develop skin cancer and die from it. However, there are many ways to increase the risk of skin cancer among POC. One way to increase your chance of skin cancer survival is to increase public awareness. For POC, the study of skin cancer is a step in the right direction. Having more information will help you find a skin cancer earlier.
