26/06/2025
1 in 5 people get skin cancer!
Skin Cancer and Melanoma: What You Need to Know
Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, caused by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, often due to DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Early detection and treatment offer a high chance of cure for most skin cancers.
Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):The most common type, usually appearing as a pearly or waxy bump on sun-exposed areas.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):Often appears as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
Melanoma:The most serious form, developing from pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). Melanoma can spread quickly and become life-threatening if not caught early.
What is Melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that often starts as a new mole or a change in an existing mole. It can develop anywhere on the body, but is more common in sun-exposed areas. Melanoma is more dangerous than other skin cancers because it can spread (metastasize) to other organs if not treated promptly.
Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma
- A new mole or a change in an existing mole
- Moles with uneven shape or edges
- Moles with a mix of colors
- Large moles (often more than 6mm)
- Moles that change size, shape, or color over time
- Moles that are swollen, sore, bleeding, itchy, or crusty
Remember the ABCDE rule for melanoma:
A**asymmetry
B**border irregularity
C**colour variation
D**diameter over 6mm
E**evolving (changing over time)
Risk Factors
- Excessive sun exposure and history of sunburns
- Use of tanning beds
- Having many or abnormal moles
- Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
- Weakened immune system
Prevention
- Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Wear sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) regularly
- Avoid tanning beds
- Perform regular skin self-exams and see a dermatologist for suspicious changes
Treatment
Surgery:Most common and effective for early-stage skin cancers and melanomas.
Other options:May include cryotherapy, chemotherapy creams, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation, depending on the type and stage.
Prognosis:Early detection is critical; most skin cancers are highly treatable when caught early.
When to See a Doctor
See a healthcare provider if you notice:
- A mole or skin spot that changes in size, shape, or color
- A new or unusual mark that doesn't go away
- Any lesion that is painful, itchy, bleeding, or crusty
Takeaway:
Protect your skin from UV exposure, check your skin regularly, and consult a healthcare provider for any suspicious changes. Early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, especially melanoma, save lives.
