The Three Main 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 can be found on any area of the boday, and it is widely recognized as the most dangerous form of skin cancer. Most of the time you find it first on the arms and legs, where it looks like a mole or freckled. Instead of a new mole, it could also be an old mole that suddenly changed shape, size, 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.
Regardless of the time of year, care should be taken to prevent skin cancer. Make sure that you protect your skin at all times by wearing sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat if possible.
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.
