Skin Cancer Awareness Month - Protect Your Skin
May marks Skin Cancer Awareness Month, which is a campaign to educate others about skin cancer and raise awareness. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers and can be prevented by taking precautions.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably. Skin cancer comes in different forms. The main cause of skin cancer is too much UV exposure.
The types of skin cancer are the following:
Melanoma: This is the most serious type of skin cancer; it develops from the cells in the skin called melanocytes. Melanoma has an aggressive nature and can spread to other parts of the body. Early detection is key in order for the risk to be lessened. Melanoma often starts as a change in an existing mole or as a new dark spot on the skin.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
BCC forms in the basal cells, which are located in the lower part of the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin). The growth rate is slow and is less likely to produce in other parts of the body. BCC can appear as pearly, waxy bumps, flat flesh-coloured or brown lesions, or bleeding sores that heal and reopen.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
SCC develops from the squamous cells, which are flat cells found in the outer part of the epidermis. SCC is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and can potentially spread to other parts of the body.
SCC can appear as red, scaly patches, rigid red nodules, or sores that heal and reopen.
Protect yourself
The primary cause of these types of skin cancer is UV (ultraviolet) exposure from the sun or tanning beds, so it’s important to take precautions against this by covering yourself in the sun, staying in the shade when the sun’s heat intensifies, applying sunscreen and avoiding tanning beds.
Additionally, having regular skin checks is also effective in preventing skin cancer.
Who are most at risk of skin cancer?
People with fair skin
Older people who have had prolonged exposure to UV over time
Those who have a family history of skin cancer or genetic skin conditions
People who suffer from severe sunburns
Individuals who tan a lot from the sun or tanning beds
People with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients or those with HIV/AIDS
Those who have had exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic
Individuals with precancerous skin lesions that haven’t been treated
What are the treatment options for skin cancer?
The treatment options vary depending on the stage and type of cancer. The general treatment options can include:
Radiation therapy
Targeted therapy
Surgery
Chemotherapy
Cryotherapy
Topical medications
Seek help if you’re concerned
If you see bumps that match the descriptions of the cancers above, seek medical attention. You may experience itchiness/soreness from these bumps, but if you don’t, it’s still advisable to see a medical professional. Taking precautions and early detection are much more efficient than late detection because your condition can be treated early on.
We are here to help
Our medical professionals at Harley 104 Clinic are here to support you and help with the treatment of your skin conditions. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
We are available Monday – Friday 9am to 7pm. Contact us to request specialist help.
Email: info@harleystreet104.com
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7935 6554