Let's diligently apply sunscreen even if it's bothersome: Understanding the Causes and Prevention of Skin Cancer.

The appearance of black spots on the body can raise concerns about health. While most of these spots are harmless, there are occasions when asymmetrical, irregularly bordered, and multicolored spots warrant suspicion of malignant tumors. Skin cancer, one of these tumor types, refers to malignant tumors that occur on the skin, classified into primary and metastatic skin cancers. Among these, primary skin cancer, commonly seen, is broadly categorized into non-melanoma skin cancer and malignant melanoma. To prevent and manage the occurrence of such skin cancers, there are important considerations to understand.

 

Major Causes of Skin Cancer

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a predominant cause of skin cancer. UV radiation exposure levels differ in terms of the risk of developing cancer, depending on the type of cancer, such as non-melanoma skin cancer and malignant melanoma. It's known that intermittent, intense exposure to UV radiation is more risky for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma than prolonged exposure. Additionally, factors such as radiation exposure, immunosuppression, and certain genetic skin conditions can influence the occurrence of skin cancer.

 

Most cases of skin cancer can be cured if detected and treated early.

 

Types and Characteristics of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer typically begins as patches and gradually progresses to nodules. This process is observed in all types of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma mainly occurs on the face and features rounded nodule boundaries. Squamous cell carcinoma often arises from chronic sun-damaged skin, chronic ulcers, burn scars, and chronic osteomyelitis, presenting as an aggressive form accompanied by ulcers or scars. Malignant melanoma is known to have a higher risk of occurrence due to strong UV radiation exposure.

 

Treatment for Skin Cancer

The primary treatment for skin cancer is surgery. Safely removing cancer cells through wide excision to include normal tissue margins is crucial. Following cancer removal, the resulting skin defect can be reconstructed using local flap surgery or skin grafting. Additionally, superficial basal cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis can be treated with phototherapy or topical immunomodulators. For malignant melanoma, after surgical removal of the skin lesion, systemic anticancer therapy or radiation therapy can be administered.

 

Prevention of Skin Cancer

Sunscreen protection is crucial for preventing skin cancer. It's important to minimize UV exposure by using sunscreen, hats, and clothing regularly. Particularly during sea bathing, wearing long-sleeved clothing and wide-brimmed hats to protect the skin is essential. Reapplying sunscreen every two hours to exposed skin is recommended. Moreover, if new spots or lesions suspicious of skin cancer appear, it's crucial to promptly seek medical evaluation by a specialist.

 

Most cases of skin cancer can be cured if detected and treated early. Therefore, maintaining skin health through UV protection and early detection is paramount. If there are any suspicious skin lesions, do not delay seeking medical attention from a specialist.