Identifying signs of skin cancer
Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer. It occurs when there is an irregular growth of skin cells, which can be caused by exposure to the sun. This is one of the most important reasons why you should wear sunscreen before stepping out in the sun, whether during summers or even in winters.
It is also worth noting that this common form of cancer can also occur on areas of the skin which are not ordinarily exposed to sunlight. Everyone should know how to identify any signs of cancer on their skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, US, when skin cancer is detected early, the five-year survival rate is 99 percent.
Skin cancer can manifest itself in several ways and there is one symptom in particular that is often ignored. Read on to find out what it is, and how to check yourself at home.
In what regions does it mostly occur?
Skin cancer can occur on various parts of the body such as the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms, hands, and legs.
It can also form on parts of the body that do not get much exposure to sunlight, such as the palms, area beneath fingernails or toenails, and the genital area. The location and size of the affected area are some of the significant factors to consider while seeking the type of treatment that will suit you the best.
Types of skin cancer
Skin cancer is of three main types – basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma begins in the basal cells – the skin cells that replace old cells in the lower level of the epidermis. It usually appears on the surface of the skin.
Squamous cell cancer affects the cells on the outermost part of the epidermis. It is most commonly found in areas of the body exposed to harmful ultraviolet sunlight.
Melanoma can develop anywhere on your body, and it develops from cells that give your skin colour. Researchers have found that they are more common on the chest and back in men and on the legs in women.
Read more: High cholesterol: The smelly warning sign of high cholesterol which is 'challenging to treat'
The most overlooked symptom
Irregular moles are a common sign of skin cancer. However, skin cancer can also develop as a pimple-like bump on the skin, which can be easily ignored or dismissed.
This can often happen if you have the Basal cell carcinoma type of cancer, which grows slowly and may look like a harmless pimple, scar, or sore. So how do we identify if it’s a harmless pimple or something cancerous? Doctors suggest one of the ways to identify the difference between a pimple or skin cancer is whether or not the bump goes away. Even the big or deep regular pimples will fade in over a week’s time, but a skin cancer pimple or blemish may grow and change in appearance. In case of doubts, it is best to consult a dermatologist for professional feedback and treatment, if required.
How to detect skin cancer at home?
The ABCDE test can help you detect potential cancerous growths at home.
- A stands for asymmetry. So look out for moles that are asymmetrical, or uneven.
- B stands for border. For this, you need to check for irregular or jagged borders on moles.
- C is for colour. Melanomas can range from white, pink, black, blue, or red in colour.
- D is for diameter. Moles that are larger than 1/4 inch or about the size of a pencil eraser may be a sign of melanoma.
- E means evolving. Watch out for any mole changes such as the size, shape, or symptoms like itching, pain, or bleeding.
Read more: Coronavirus: COVID survivors, note! THIS activity may worsen long COVID symptoms, finds study
Other signs of skin cancer
It is important to also look out for signs other than moles. Sometimes, the first sign of skin cancer is a rough area of red or brown skin that resembles a scab or wart.
Skin cancer also doesn't always manifest on the skin. Melanoma near the lungs can also cause symptoms like shortness of breath. Melanoma on the head can lead to headaches or vision changes. Skin cancer is treatable when caught early, but it can be deadly if left untreated, which is why it is important to regularly check and examine your skin for signs of cancer.