3 types of skin cancer and how to protect yourself

Did you know skin cancer is the most common type of cancer?

That’s especially true in Arizona, where its close proximity to the equator AND the sun creates warm weather for most of the year, leading people to spend more time outside with less clothing protecting their skin from the sun.

“Skin cancer most often develops on skin exposed to the sun, but it can show up on other areas as well,” said Dr. Jeffrey Lambert, TMCOne. “Knowing the risks and what to look for is critical to prevention or early detection.”

Types of skin cancer

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

“Although non-melanoma skin cancer spreads slowly, if left untreated, it can lead to disfigurement,” said Dr. Christine Moussa, Pima Dermatology. “Melanoma, although much less common, is the most deadly form of skin cancer. Nearly 20 Americans die from melanoma every day. Skin cancers of all types can present in a variety of ways and the evaluation by your primary care physician or a dermatologist is useful in determining the next step of treating a new or concerning skin lesion.”

• A large brownish spot with darker specks.

• A mole that changes in color, size or feel or that bleeds

• A small lesion with an irregular border and portions that appear red, pink, white, blue or blue-black

• A painful lesion that itches or burns.

• Dark lesions on the palms, soles, fingertips, toes or on mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, vagina or anus.

“If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, bring them to your doctor’s attention right away,” Dr. Lambert said. “The earlier you treat skin cancer, the better.”

Reduce your risk

“You can reduce your risk of skin cancer by limiting or avoiding exposure to ultraviolet radiation, AKA UV rays,” Dr. Lambert said. Here are some ways you can do that:

• Avoid the sun during the middle of the day when its rays are the strongest.

• Wear sunscreen year-round. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours – or more often while swimming or sweating.

• Keep in mind that some medications can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. If they do, take extra precautions such as staying out of the sun.

• “Check your skin for suspicious changes to detect skin cancer early,” Dr. Moussa said. “You have a huge role in this as you may notice a new or changing skin lesion before anyone else, in yourself or in your family members. I recommend a monthly skin examination, and for new, changing or skin lesions, seek a dermatologist’s evaluation.”