Skin cancer attacks one out of every seven Americans each year, making it the most prevalent form of cancer. However, the majority of all skin cancers can be cured if detected and treated in time.
There are two kinds of skin tumors, benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous). Of the three main types of skin cancer, the most common and least serious is the basal cell carcinoma. Typically, it appears as a shiny, small lump on sun-exposed areas of persons who have spent a lot of time outdoors. Though the tumors grow slowly, they can reach a very large size and penetrate deeply if they are not treated. They may often bleed, develop a crust, seem to heal, and then bleed again.
Squamous cell carcinoma may show up as a lump or red scaly growth. Untreated, squamous cell cancer can spread and even cause death.
Melanoma is the least common but most serious form of skin cancer. It usually appears as a dark brown or black mole with uneven borders and irregular color, with shades of black/blue, red, or white. It may be perfectly flat or raised. Melanoma may occur anywhere on the body; from the scalp to the feet. This serious form of skin cancer can result in death if undetected and untreated. There is a rare form of melanoma that occurs in families with atypical moles. These individuals have many unusual moles, some of which may need to be removed. If treated early results are good.
Anyone can be diagnosed with cancer at any age. Doctors link these forms of cancer to overexposure to the sun. Tanning booths can also increase your risk, as can exposure to radiation or high altitude. Because each type of skin cancer has a different look, effect and treatment, it is important to alert your physician if you notice unusual changes in the size and shape of spots, the coloration of your skin or the sensitivity and comfort of your body. Time is of the essence, and when caught early, many forms of skin cancer can be successfully treated.
Treatment
In situations where the cancer is relatively small, your doctor will surgically excise the cancerous flesh and then reconstruct the area. In more extreme cases, where the cancer is larger or has spread to other areas of the body, measures such as cryosurgery (where the cancer is frozen) or radiation therapy may be recommended. In addition, chemotherapy and Mohs surgery (in which the cancer is taken off in layers) have been successful in eradicating cancerous cells. The important thing is to contact your doctor immediately for a consultation if you feel that you are showing symptoms of any of these conditions. After surgery, it is important to carefully check your skin regularly for recurrences, and you should visit your doctor regularly for routine exams.