When we think about taking care of our health, we often focus on nutrition, exercise or general checkups. However, the skin also needs constant attention. The skin is the largest organ in the body and is exposed every day to the sun, the environment and other factors that can affect it.
One of the most serious conditions that can develop in the skin is skin cancer. This condition occurs when skin cells begin to grow abnormally. Although it may sound alarming, the good news is that many cases can be treated successfully when detected early.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the skin. It can appear in different areas of the body, especially in areas that receive more sun exposure, such as the face, scalp, ears, lips, neck, arms, hands, back and legs. It can also appear in less exposed areas, such as under the nails, on the palms of the hands or on the soles of the feet.
There are several types of skin cancer. The most common are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These usually have a good prognosis when identified and treated early. Melanoma, although less common, can be more dangerous because it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body.
Warning signs you should not ignore
Skin cancer does not always cause pain at first. That’s why it is important to observe your skin frequently and pay attention to any changes. Some signs that may require medical evaluation include:
- A mole that changes in size, shape or color.
- A new spot on the skin that was not there before.
- A sore that does not heal.
- A scab or rough area that persists.
- A shiny, pink, brown, black or unusual-looking bump.
- Itching, tenderness or pain around a skin lesion.
In the case of melanoma, one common sign may be a mole that changes over time, especially if it has irregular borders or multiple colors.
Who is at greater risk?
Anyone can develop skin cancer. Even so, there are factors that can increase the risk, such as having skin that burns easily, light-colored eyes, blond or red hair, many freckles or moles, a history of sunburns, use of tanning beds, a family or personal history of skin cancer and older age.
Exposure to ultraviolet rays, whether from the sun or tanning beds, is one of the most important factors. These rays can damage skin cells and increase the risk of developing cancer over time.
How can you protect your skin?
Prevention begins with simple habits that can be integrated into your daily routine. Protecting yourself from the sun is not only for beach or pool days; it should be a year-round practice, even on cloudy days.
Some important recommendations are:
- Seek shade when you are outdoors.
- Wear clothes that cover the skin, such as long-sleeved shirts or lightweight pants.
- Use wide-brimmed hats to protect the face, ears and neck.
- Wear sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher before going outside.
- Reapply sunscreen, especially if you sweat or are in contact with water.
- Avoid tanning beds.
How is skin cancer diagnosed?
If you notice a spot, mole or lesion that concerns you, the best recommendation is to visit a doctor. Diagnosis usually begins with a skin exam. If the specialist identifies a suspicious lesion, they may perform a biopsy, which consists of taking a small tissue sample to analyze it in a laboratory.
In some cases, if there is concern that the cancer may have spread, additional studies may be recommended to determine the stage of the disease and decide the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment: Every case is different
Skin cancer treatment depends on the type, size, location and whether it has spread or not. Some options may include medicated creams, procedures to remove the lesion, surgery, Mohs surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
The most important thing is not to wait for a lesion to get worse. The earlier it is detected, the greater the possibility of treating it effectively.
Conclusion: Check your skin and seek help on time
Skin cancer can be prevented in many cases with good sun protection habits and attention to changes in the skin. Checking your skin frequently, protecting yourself from the sun and visiting a specialist when you notice something different can make a big difference in your health.
If you notice a mole, spot or lesion that concerns you, do not leave it for later. Visit the Salus medical directory and schedule an appointment with dermatologists and medical specialists who can guide you, evaluate you and help you care for your skin health.
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