Understanding Skin Cancer: Prevention, Risks, and Early Detection for Healthier Skin

Skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells — most often develops on skin exposed to the sun. But this common form of cancer can also occur on areas of your skin not ordinarily exposed to sunlight.

There are three major types of skin cancer — basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by limiting or avoiding exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. 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.

What Is Skin Cancer?

The skin is the body’s largest organ. Skin has several layers, but the two main layers are the epidermis (upper or outer layer) and the dermis (lower or inner layer). Skin cancer begins in the epidermis, which is made up of three kinds of cells:

Squamous cells: Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer originating from squamous cells in the skin’s middle and outer layers. While typically not life-threatening, if left untreated, it can grow and potentially spread, leading to severe complications. Excessive UV radiation, from sunlight or tanning beds, is a primary cause, making sun protection crucial in reducing the risk of squamous cell carcinoma and other skin cancers. These carcinomas may appear anywhere on the skin, with sun-exposed areas being common sites for those prone to sunburn, while individuals with darker skin tones may develop them in less sun-exposed areas like the genitals.

Basal cells: Basal cell carcinoma, originating from basal cells in the skin, typically manifests as a translucent bump or other variations. It commonly occurs on sun-exposed areas like the head and neck. Prolonged UV radiation exposure from sunlight is the primary cause, highlighting the importance of sun protection to mitigate the risk of basal cell carcinoma.

Melanocytes: Melanoma, a type of skin cancer originating from melanocytes, cells producing skin pigment melanin, often develops on sun-exposed areas like the arms, back, face, and legs, as well as in the eyes or rarely, internally. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, most melanomas result from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunlight or tanning devices. Limiting UV exposure is crucial in reducing melanoma risk, especially as rates seem to be rising among younger individuals, particularly women. Early detection of skin cancer symptoms is key to successful treatment, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings for timely intervention.

What Are the Risk Factors for Skin Cancer?

Anyone can get skin cancer, but people with certain characteristics are at greater risk:

  • Fair skin. Anyone, regardless of skin color, can get skin cancer. However, having less pigment (melanin) in your skin provides less protection from damaging UV radiation. If you have blond or red hair and light-colored eyes, and you freckle or sunburn easily, you’re much more likely to develop skin cancer than a person with darker skin.
  • A history of sunburns. Having had one or more blistering sunburns as a child or teenager increases your risk of developing skin cancer as an adult. Sunburns in adulthood also are a risk factor.
  • Moles. People who have many moles or abnormal moles called dysplastic nevi are at increased risk of skin cancer. These abnormal moles — which look irregular and are generally larger than normal moles — are more likely than others to become cancerous. If you have a history of abnormal moles, watch them regularly for changes.
  • A family history of skin cancer. If one of your parents or a sibling has had skin cancer, you may have an increased risk of the disease.
  • A personal history of skin cancer. If you developed skin cancer once, you’re at risk of developing it again.
  • Excessive sun exposure. Anyone who spends considerable time in the sun may develop skin cancer, especially if the skin isn’t protected by sunscreen or clothing. Tanning, including exposure to tanning lamps and beds, also puts you at risk. A tan is your skin’s injury response to excessive UV radiation.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer develops primarily on areas of sun-exposed skin, including the scalp, face, lips, ears, neck, chest, arms, and hands, and on the legs in women. But it can also form on areas that rarely see the light of day — your palms, beneath your fingernails or toenails, and your genital area.

Skin cancer affects people of all skin tones, including those with darker complexions. When melanoma occurs in people with dark skin tones, it’s more likely to occur in areas not normally exposed to the sun, such as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

Prevention

Most skin cancers are preventable. To protect yourself, follow these skin cancer prevention tips:

  • Avoid peak sun hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and schedule outdoor activities for earlier or later times to minimize UV exposure. Cloud cover offers minimal protection, so take precautions even on cloudy days to prevent sunburns and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
  • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher generously and reapply every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating. Ensure coverage on all exposed skin, including lips, ears, hands, and neck.
  • Wear protective clothing, including dark, tightly woven garments covering arms and legs, and a broad-brimmed hat for added protection. Look for photoprotective clothing and sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
  • Avoid tanning beds, which emit UV rays and increase the risk of skin cancer.
  • Be cautious with sun-sensitizing medications, as some may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about any medications you take and take extra precautions to protect your skin if needed.
  • Regularly check your skin for changes, including new growths or alterations in moles, freckles, and birthmarks. Use mirrors to examine hard-to-see areas like the scalp, genital area, and between buttocks, and report any concerns to your doctor promptly.

Benefits to Spending Time Outdoors

Spending time outdoors offers numerous health benefits, including physical activity and mental well-being. However, excessive UV exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. Protect yourself by using sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade when possible. Communities can promote sun safety by providing shaded areas in public spaces. While UV rays from the sun can stimulate vitamin D production, excessive exposure can lead to skin cancer and eye disease. Vitamin D can be obtained safely through diet and supplements without the risks of overexposure to UV radiation.

References:

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023b, April 19). Skin cancer. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 
  • Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, December 6). Skin cancer. Mayo Clinic. 
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