What Are The Different Types Of Skin Cancer?
One of the most common forms of cancer is skin cancer. It is easy to prevent it, and it is very curable, but it must be detected early on. There are three main types of skin cancer that you might see on your skin.
The first type of skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. They are generally found in areas that have been overexposed to the sun. The face and ears are typical locations for this type of skin cancer. With squamous cell carcinoma, you will most often have a bump in the beginning and it will eventually turn into an open sore that will not heal. It will continue to get larger and larger if left untreated. It will also spread to other parts of the body if you do not get treatment for this type of skin cancer.
The next kind you should be aware of is the most common. Basal cell carcinoma makes up three quarters of all skin cancers. The face, hands, and neck are the places it typically appears. If discovered quickly enough, basal cell carcinoma has effective treatment options and can usually be cured without too much difficulty. Frequently, an irritated sore that bleeds is an early sign of basal cell carcinoma. However, sometimes basal cell carcinoma can be overlooked because the sore may also resemble a fresh scar.
Melanoma is the last and potentially the most dangerous of all the types of skin cancer. Melanoma can be found on any part of the body, but is usually found on the arms and legs and is often mistaken for a mole or a freckle. Melanoma is particularly dangerous because it can come from an existing mole that has recently changed size, shape, or color.
It is imperative that the melanoma type of skin cancer be found and eradicated early to prevent the problems that will come with the later stages of this skin cancer.
There are many steps you can take to prevent skin cancer. Protect your skin from the sun anytime you go outside. Always wear sunscreen no matter what time of year it is.
Be sure to wear clothes that keep exposed areas covered. Wear your hat to keep your neck and face protected. Be sure to examine your skin for potential skin cancers frequently. Early detection often makes the difference to survival.