Types of Cancer

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The diagnosis of melanomas at Martha Jefferson increased by 60% in 2006 over the previous two years.

Though the rate is not reflected in state or national statistics, it is clear that melanoma is on the rise nationwide, as are other skin cancers, especially among women.

Though such an upward trend is disconcerting, skin cancer is 99% preventable, and with early detection patients are cured at a success rate of nearly 100%.

The three primary forms of skin cancer are:

  • Basal cell carcinoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma
  • Melanoma

While Melanoma is widely considered the most life-threatening form of skin cancer, Basal cell and Squamous cell skin cancers are equally as dangerous if ignored.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequently occurring form of skin cancer. Though Basal cell skin cancer mainly appears on the head and neck regions, one should not rule out its presence on other parts of the body. It is generally not known to spread as rapidly as Squamous cell or Melanoma skin cancers.

Squamous cell carcinoma can spread to the lymph nodes, making the likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body high. It is also common, affecting 700,000 people per year. It usually appears on areas of the body that are regularly exposed to the sun.

Prevention is essential to ensuring the health of your skin. Fair-skinned individuals should be particularly wary of the sun's rays. In addition, white women are 10 times as likely to develop skin cancer as African Americans.

Age also plays a role in determining your risk. The older the individual, the more likely he or she will develop some form of skin cancer.

Of course, family history is also important. If skin cancer runs in your family, it is extremely important to remain cognizant of any skin irregularities. Just one mole on a limb doubles your risk of developing skin cancer!

Signs and Symptoms
Among the signs of skin cancer are:

  • Pearly bumps or scabs that won't heal
  • Patches of skin irritation
  • Moles with an irregular border or pigmentation

How is it diagnosed?
Usually, treatment initially begins with a biopsy of the skin irregularity to determine the cancer type-melanoma or nonmelonoma.

How is it treated?
Depending on the form of cancer, and how far it has progressed, one of the following treatments may be used during the treatment process:

  • Chemical removal
  • Surgical removal, including MOHS surgery

As is the case with most forms of cancer, the earlier the detection, the better the prognosis.

Prevention
By taking the following measures, the risk of developing skin cancer diminishes:

  • Use sunblock liberally.
  • Avoid outdoor activities between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m.
  • If being outdoors during the aforementioned time frame is unavoidable, wear long sleeves and a hat to minimize exposure.
  • Avoid tanning beds. They are no safer than the sun itself!
Where can I get more information?
You should be sure to ask your doctors for their assessment and recommendations for your particular disease. For more information online, we recommend the following websites:

American Cancer Society American Academy of Dermatology The National Cancer Institute The Skin Cancer Foundation