Skin Cancer Types

1. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) – This is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It commonly affects fair skinned individuals on sun-exposed skin, specifically on the face, nose, eyelids, neck, chest and arms. BCC is usually slow-growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body but can become locally invasive if left untreated.
2. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) – SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 16% of cases. It also typically appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin such as the face, ears, lips and back of the hands, but can also occur on areas not normally exposed to the sun in people of color. In fact, it is the most common type of skin cancer in people of color. Risk factors for development of SCC are a family history of SCC and melanoma. SCC can spread to other parts of the body and destroy healthy tissues if left untreated.
3. Melanoma – This is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Although it accounts for only about 4% of skin cancer cases, it causes a large majority of skin cancer deaths. Melanoma can appear anywhere on the body and can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early. Melanoma is often characterized by an unusual mole or spot on the skin that changes in size, shape, or color over time.

According to www.skincancer.org, about 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancer ( BCCs and SCCs) and 86% of melanomas are associated with exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays (UV). UV exposure damages the skin’s DNA which leads to uncontrolled cell growth or tumors.

However, other factors may also play a role in the development of skin cancer, including:

1. Genetic predisposition: Certain genetic mutations or inherited conditions may increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
2. Weakened immune system: People with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, or people taking immunosuppressive drugs, have an increased risk of developing skin cancer.
3. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic or coal tar, can increase the risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer.
4. Previous skin cancer: People who have had skin cancer in the past have a higher risk of developing new skin cancers.
5. Age: The risk of developing skin cancer increases with age.
6. Skin type: People with fair skin, blond or red hair, and blue or green eyes are at higher risk for skin cancer than those with darker skin.

It’s important to protect your skin from the sun and avoid using tanning beds to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak hours of sunlight can all help reduce your exposure to harmful UV radiation.