Each year, over 3 million people in the United States receive a skin cancer diagnosis, making it among the most commonly diagnosed cancers.. The unfortunate reality is that many people remain unaware of the seriousness of skin cancer until it impacts them or someone they care about. Understanding the risk factors can be the difference between early intervention and a more serious outcome.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer happens when skin cells grow abnormally and form unusual spots, patches, or lumps. It begins in the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin, due to DNA damage that isn’t repaired. This damage triggers mutations, causing cells to grow uncontrollably and form malignant tumors.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. Some types remain localised, while others can spread to other parts of the body. The best way to understand this cancer is to learn about its types and how they affect your health.
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is primarily classified into three main types: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent form. It usually develops after prolonged sun exposure over the years. BCC can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most frequently found on the head, neck, and arms.
While BCC is malignant and grows uncontrollably, it rarely spreads to other body parts when detected early. Early intervention is key to effective management.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type. Individuals with fair skin are at a higher risk, but anyone can develop it. SCC typically appears on the rim of the ear, face, neck, arms, chest, and back.
Like BCC, early detection and treatment are crucial. If left untreated, SCC can become more serious and may spread to other areas.
3. Melanoma
Melanoma represents a smaller percentage of skin cancer cases compared to BCC and SCC. However, it is much more aggressive and has a tendency to spread to other parts of the body. If not treated early, melanoma can be fatal.
This type of cancer may develop from an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin. Recognisiing changes in moles or skin spots is essential for early detection.
What are the first signs of skin cancer?
The primary warning sign of skin cancer is a noticeable change in your skin. This often includes a new growth or alterations in an existing mole. Here are some specific symptoms to watch for:
- A new mole or a mole that changes in size, shape, or color.
- A mole that bleeds or appears irregular.
- A pearly or waxy bump on the face, ears, or neck.
- A flat patch that is pink, red, or brown.
- Areas on the skin that resemble scars.
- Sores that look crusty, have a depression in the center or bleed frequently.
- A wound or sore that does not heal or heals but reappears.
- A rough, scaly lesion that may itch, bleed, or become crusty.
Survival Rates for Skin Cancer
The survival rate for skin cancer varies based on the type and stage at diagnosis. Generally, the earlier you are diagnosed, the better your chances of survival. Once cancer spreads to other parts of the body, treatment becomes more challenging.
1. Melanoma Survival Rates
Melanoma can be aggressive if not detected early. For early-stage melanoma (stages 0–2), the five-year survival rate is approximately 98.4%—highlighting the importance of early detection. For stage 3 melanoma, the five-year survival rate drops to 63.6 percent. Unfortunately, stage 4 melanoma has a much lower survival rate of 22.5 percent.
2. Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinoma Survival Rates
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are considered lower-risk cancers. Both types have very high cure rates. The has a five‑year survival rate close to 100% in most cases, while squamous cell carcinoma has a five-year survival rate around 95% in many patients.
Treatment Options for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is often treatable, particularly when identified early. The primary approach to treating skin cancer involves surgical removal. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to remain awake and comfortable.
In cases where the cancer is more advanced, doctors may need to remove some surrounding tissue. This ensures that all cancerous cells are eliminated, reducing the risk of recurrence. In some cases, non-surgical options like topical treatments or radiotherapy may be used.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skin cancer
To detect skin cancer early, perform regular self-exams of your skin. Look for any new growths, changes in existing moles, or unusual spots. You can schedule routine check-ups with a dermatologist for professional evaluations.
Early-stage cancer can appear as a small growth or sore. It may have a pearly or waxy appearance, or it could look like a red, scaly patch. Changes in existing moles, such as size or color, are also warning signs.
The three main types are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. Each type varies in severity and treatment options.
