As summer gets underway, it’s more important than ever to protect your face and body from harmful UV rays. UVA and UVB rays can damage skin at a cellular level and lead to premature aging and skin cancer.
While skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., it is also highly treatable when diagnosed early.
Continue reading to learn about skin cancer types, prevention, and treatment.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when malignant cells develop in the skin’s epidermis, which is the outermost later of skin. There are three types of skin cancer, and each one is named after the cell in which it originates.
Basal cell carcinoma forms in the lowest part of the epidermis and grows gradually. It typically presents as a small white of flesh-colored bump.
Squamous cell carcinoma forms in squamous cells, which make up the middle and outer layer of the epidermis.
It’s usually found on sun-exposed areas of the body such as the head, neck, chest, upper back, ears, lips, arms, legs, and hands.
Melanoma forms in melanocytes, which are pigment-producing cells, and it’s the rarest and deadliest type of skin cancer.
What Is a Skin Cancer Screening?
A skin cancer screening involves a visual examination of the entire body for any suspicious lesions that are abnormal in color, shape, size, and texture.
If any particular mole requires further inspection, it will be biopsied and evaluated under a microscope for cancerous cells.
How Is Skin Cancer Treated?
Skin cancer treatment can vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s age,
overall health, the rate at which the cancer cells are dividing, and the number of places cancer has spread to in your body.
With that being said, basic moles can often be surgically removed with a quick and comfortable in-office procedure.
Call to Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening Today
To learn more about skin cancer or to schedule a skin cancer screening, please call our office today and make an appointment with Dr. Johnathan Langston Chappell.
