Skin Cancer: What You Need To Know

Skin Cancer Types, Causes, and Treatment Options

Skin cancer is more common than you might think. In fact, over a million new cases are diagnosed each year in the U.S. alone. It’s the most frequently diagnosed cancer, affecting around 20% of men and 10% of women. The good news? When caught early, 95% of skin cancers can be treated successfully. Unfortunately, about 8,500 deaths still occur each year due to complications from skin cancer. So, knowing how to prevent, identify, and treat it is crucial.

How Sun Exposure Impacts Skin Cancer

Sun exposure is one of the biggest factors leading to skin cancer. It’s not just about getting a bad sunburn; it’s the cumulative effect of UV exposure over time that really does the damage. If you have lighter skin, especially if you’re of Scandinavian descent, your risk is higher, but even darker-skinned individuals can get skin cancer with enough exposure.

Actinic keratosis is a common sign that your skin has taken a beating from the sun. These are rough, scaly patches that usually show up on areas that get a lot of sun, like your face or hands. Left untreated, they can turn into skin cancer. And let’s not forget the cosmetic effects of too much sun—wrinkles, leathery skin, and uneven coloring.

The Three Main Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer you should be aware of, each with its own risks and treatment approaches.

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma

This is the most common type of skin cancer. The good news? It rarely spreads to other parts of your body. The not-so-good news? It can still cause problems if you ignore it. Over time, it can grow deeper into your skin and affect areas like cartilage, muscle, and even bone. While it usually doesn’t hurt, it can cause bleeding and sores if left untreated.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This is the second most common type. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma has a higher chance of spreading to other areas of your body, especially if it’s not treated promptly. It can also develop in places you wouldn’t expect, like an old scar or wound that hasn’t healed properly.

3. Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and can develop from existing moles or appear as new spots. It spreads fast and can quickly affect other parts of your body, so early detection is key.

How is Skin Cancer Treated?

If your doctor suspects skin cancer, they’ll first perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. From there, the treatment plan depends on the type, size, and depth of the cancer, as well as its location. Here are some of the most common treatment options:

Cryosurgery: Freezing and destroying the cancerous cells.
Curettage and Electrodessication: Scraping away the cancer and using an electric current to kill any remaining cells.
Photodynamic Therapy: Using light and a special drug to target cancer cells.
Topical Treatments: Creams and ointments that target cancer cells or boost your immune system.
Surgical Excision: Cutting out the cancer with some surrounding healthy tissue to make sure it’s all removed.
Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) : A non-invasive treatment that uses low-dose X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells. SRT is an effective option in areas where surgery might cause scarring or be more complex. It offers minimal discomfort and is ideal for patients seeking an alternative to surgical procedures.
Mohs Surgery: A highly precise method where the cancer is removed layer by layer, ensuring minimal impact on healthy skin.

After treatment, it’s important to keep up with regular check-ups, as having one skin cancer increases your risk of developing another in the future. Sun protection is essential to reduce your risk of a recurrence.

Preventing and Catching Skin Cancer Early

The best way to lower your risk of skin cancer is by being proactive. Regularly check your skin for any new or changing spots, and schedule annual skin exams with a dermatologist. And of course, protect your skin when you’re outside—wear sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing to minimize UV exposure.

Understanding the different types of skin cancer and your treatment options can help you make informed decisions about your health.

By staying vigilant and taking simple steps to protect your skin, you can significantly reduce your risk and increase the chances of successful treatment if cancer does occur.