Melanoma is a deadly skin cancer that, if caught early, has a high rate of cure when surgically removed. Be aware of melanoma; too many lives have been lost that may have been saved through early detection of this skin cancer.
How do I detect Melanoma? Look at your moles. Follow the ABCs when deciding if you need to have a mole checked by your Dermatologist. ‘A’ stands for asymmetry, meaning, if you draw an imaginary line through your mole, does it look the same on both sides? ‘B’ stands for the border – are the edges of the mole smooth? Or jagged like the piece of a jigsaw puzzle?
‘C’ stands for color; is there any black in the mole? Are there different shades of brown, black, or red? Normal moles are usually all one shade of color. But if ANY of your moles look black, that could be a sign of melanoma, and you should have it checked. ‘D’ stands for diameter – is it bigger than a pencil eraser? And finally, ‘E’ stands for evolving – is the mole changing? Is it getting larger, changing color, etc.?
3 Common Types of Skin Cancer
Melanoma – and Free Skin Cancer Screenings
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, with melanoma being the deadliest form. Unlike other skin cancers, melanoma can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not detected early. Therefore, understanding the risks, warning signs, and the importance of regular skin checks is crucial for early detection and treatment.
What is Melanoma? Melanoma originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives skin its color. It can develop anywhere on the body but is most commonly found in areas exposed to the sun, such as the back, legs, arms, and face. Melanoma is particularly dangerous because it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early.
How Often Should You Get Your Skin Checked?
It is recommended that adults perform monthly self-examinations of their skin to check for new or changing moles or spots. Additionally, a professional skin examination by a dermatologist should be done at least once a year. Those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history of melanoma, fair skin, a history of sunburns, or numerous moles, may need more frequent checks.
May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and many free skin cancer screenings are being conducted. The American Academy of Dermatology website has a Find a Free SPOT me® Skin Cancer Screening tool, which allows you to click on a state and find a free screening in your area.
Basal Cell Carcinoma — Most Common Skin Cancer
While melanoma may be the deadliest skin cancer, it is not the most common one. The most common skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC). Many women in their prime will get BCC.
BCCs on the face are the most common location; however, they can also be found on the chest, back, arms, and legs. People do not die from a BCC; instead, they get a scar from the surgical removal of the BCC. The earlier we detect this cancer, the smaller the scar will be. If you notice a pimple-like spot on your face that will not heal or go away after three months, get it checked by a dermatologist.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of skin cancer that originates in the squamous cells, which make up the outer layer of the skin. It often develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, and hands. SCC typically appears as a scaly, red patch, open sore, or wart-like growth that may crust or bleed.
While it is generally less aggressive than melanoma, it can spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. Early detection and treatment, usually involving surgical removal, are crucial for preventing further complications and ensuring a high cure rate.
Prevent Skin Cancer And Wrinkles
Oh, the sun! We love the sun; its benefits are many, but too much sun causes skin cancer and wrinkles. I am paying for the sun tanning I did in my youth with two facial BCCs and premature wrinkling. So, how do we prevent them?
- Wear a moisturizer every day with SPF 30 or greater. Make sure it has either titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which will physically block the sun’s rays.
- Wear hats if you are going to be outside.
- Do not go to a tanning bed and pass on that advice to your children.
- Do not lay out in the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
- If you are at the pool or beach at noon, try to get under an umbrella and wear clothing and sunscreen to protect your skin.
Have fun this summer, use common sense, and avoid sunburn!!
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