Written By: Debjani Arora | Published : June 8, 2016 3:27 PM IST
You might think that skin cancer isn t as common as other forms of cancer like say breast cancer or colorectal cancer. And if your thoughts were just that here is a fact for you: More than 3.5 million skin cancers are diagnosed annually all over the world, says Dr Vikas Goswami Senior Consultant Oncologist from CTC, Fortis Hospital. In fact, Melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer that is caused by sun s UV rays. Here, Dr Vikas speaks about everything related to skin cancer or melanoma.
How skin cancer grows
Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells often developed in parts mostly exposed to the sun. It develops primarily on areas including the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms and hands, and on legs in women. Melanoma, the most common form of skin cancer occurs in people with dark skin tones; it's more likely to occur in areas not usually exposed to the sun. It can represent as a mole which can then turn to becomes cancerous. Most often it appears on the head or neck of affected men. In women, this type of cancer most often develops on the lower legs. However, it can also occur under the fingernails or toenails, under breasts, underarms, etc.
Signs to watch out for
There are certain giveaway signs of melanoma that you shouldn t miss out on; here are a few of them:
Who is at risk
There are certain parameters that make one prone to skin cancer
Excessive exposure to UV rays: People who have excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, usually from the sun and also from tanning lamps and booths have an increased chance of suffering from skin cancer.
Smokers: This vice gets you nowhere, it only makes you prone to skin cancer.
Skin pigmentation: There is something to do with skin pigmentation that can increase one s risk of suffering from skin cancer. People who have blond, red or light brown hair, blue, grey or green eyes have a greater chance of suffering from the same. Also, people with fair skin or freckles, sensitive skin are at risk. Having one or more pigmented spot anywhere in your body should also make you concerned.
Family history: This cancer runs in the family and can affect those whose family members might have suffered from it before.
Moles: If you have several moles on your body, be alert, especially, if you develop new ones. Moles are one of the first signs of developing skin cancer.
Other factors: A weak immune system, people on immune-suppressive drugs who had undergone an organ transplant, exposed to ionising radiations or pesticides also fall under high risk category.
What you should do
Take a closer look at your skin first. Self-assessment is critical because you will be the first person to know about the appearance of moles and skin tags on your body. Checking your skin for suspicious changes can help detect skin cancer at its earliest stages. Early detection of skin cancer gives you the greatest chance for successful skin cancer treatment.
Tips to prevent skin cancer
When should you worry
Here are some signs that might tell you in a subtle way to make an appointment with an oncologist:
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