Cancer symptom: Watch out for these common areas of skin cancer
-
Loading... - Jana Banik
- 29 Jun 2022
- 130 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, of which skin cancer accounts for 1.20 million cases globally.
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, which most often develops on skin exposed to the sun, as per the Mayo Clinic. However, it can also develop in areas of the body not commonly exposed to sunlight.
Types of skin cancer
There are three major types of skin cancer. These include:
Basal cell carcinoma: Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that usually occurs in people who have fair skin. It appears as a slightly transparent bump on the skin and on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun such as your head and neck.
Squamous cell carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the squamous cells that make up the middle and outer layers of the skin, as per Mayo Clinic. This type of skin cancer is characterized by a red firm bump, scaly patch, or a sore that heals and then reopens.
Melanoma: Melanoma is the most serious kind of skin cancer that develops in the melanocytes, the cell that produces melanin. It can develop within a mole or appear suddenly on your skin as a dark spot.
Other types of skin cancers include: cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), merkel cell carcinoma, sebaceous carcinoma.
Which areas of the body are most prone to skin cancer
Skin cancer can develop in any part of the body. However, because it typically occurs due to UV light exposure, it's often found in areas of the body exposed to the sunlight. Common sites include the face, especially the nose and the cheeks, ears, scalp, shoulders, arms, and hands.
London-based Consultant Dermatologist Dr Hélène du P Menagé told Express.co.uk, pay close attention to "common sites for skin cancers" including the nose, neck and ears.
Experts also believe those who live in warmer climates may be prone to skin cancers in areas such as the torso and back, as well as the legs. Read More...
