What is Skin Cancer?

Each year there are thousands of individuals who die from skin cancer. Skin cancer is mostly developed after a long period of overexposure to the sun or tanning beds. If skin cancer is detected in enough time it is possible for the cancer to be treated. This is often difficult because a large number of skin cancer victims do not display any symptoms or even develop skin cancer until years after their initial overexposure took place.

Skin cancer comes in many different forms. It is common for skin cancer to be basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer, and melanoma cancer. Each form of cancer is dangerous and potentially deadly; however, melanoma is the deadliest. Squamous and basal cell cancers are the most common, but melanoma cancer spreads more quickly. When the caner cells spread it effects the body and many important organs.

Skin cancer may not present a lot of warning signs or symptoms; however, individuals who have been tanning in the past or were constantly outdoors are encouraged to keep an eye on their body. The best way to notice signs of all forms of cancer is to look for new body moles and monitor old ones. It is not uncommon for cancer to develop into a new mole or one that is already on the skin. Everyone should always be on the lookout for new moles that develop, ones that bleed, are tender when touched, swollen, or itchy.

Although it is possible for skin cancer to be hereditary it is mostly developed from tanning or a large amount of sun exposure. There are a number of ways that an individual can decrease their chances on contracting skin cancer. When going outside at all, even on a cloudy day, individuals are encouraged to wear sunscreen. Sunscreen should regularly be applied to individuals who will be outdoors for thirty minutes or more. Protective clothing is also another great way to help prevent an individual from developing skin cancer. Clothing should cover the majority of the body. Wide brimmed hats are a great way to protect the head, the back of the neck, eyes, ears, and the nose.

Individuals who notice an odd looking mole on their body are encouraged to visit their doctor or a local dermatologist to have it examined. Each years millions of Americans wonder if their high school tanning spree may now impact their health. When in doubt speak with a healthcare provider because they are likely to give you the answers that you are looking for.