Skin cancer occurs to many people around the world and around 1 million new cases are reported each year. This is a growing problem as more and more people are exposed to the harmful UV rays of the sun. Many experts cite the depletion of the ozone layer as a reason for the increase in skin cancer rates all around the world. Almost 50% of all people in the U.S. will develop some form of this cancer by the time they are in their mid 60s and that is alarming.
There are several types of skin cancer including basal cell carcinoma or basal cell epithelioma. This is the most common form of skin cancer and one of the common symptoms are sores that refuse to heal with time. This type of skin cancer does not usually spread and is most common on the face and neck, areas that are exposed to dangerous UV rays. People with light skin and fair complexions are at a greatly exaggerated risk for developing basal cell carcinoma and should avoid the sun or use high SPF sun block lotion at all times when they go outdoors. Just because there is cloud cover does not mean that UV rays are not getting through. Some fair skinned individuals can even get sunburns on cloudy days.
Treatments for skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma) include scraping or burning off the sore or cells. If the sore or cell area is too large surgery could be required. There are specialized types of surgeries for this treatment of skin cancer.
Another form of skin cancer is squamos cell carcinoma. This is a more serious type of cancer that must be treated with radiation and chemo therapy. It can resemble fish scales along the epidermis, but also in the lining of muscles and major organs throughout the body.
Another common form of skin cancer is melanoma and occurs when the body produces melanin which is the pigment that the body creates to darken the skin and protect it against the harmful UV rays of the sun. Melanoma is usually seen on the skin as spots but can become tumors as well. The treatment for skin cancer of this type depend on the severity of the disease and how advanced it is in stages. Treatments include chemotherapy, biological therapy, or radiation therapy.
Please see your doctor immediately if you are experiencing symptoms of skin cancer. No amount of information gathered online is going to help you unless you first seek medical advice from a real, certified physician. Only they can provide the diagnosis and treatment for skin cancer that will be effective.