Health and Wellness Tips - Skin Cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma

Skin Cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma

Many people are surprised to learn that there are several different types of skin cancer. Some think that melanoma and skin cancer are one and the same, but melanoma is actually only one form of the disease. The most common of all the types of skin cancer is a condition known as basal cell carcinoma.

Seventy five percent of all skin cancer patients have been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma. At one time, this was a disease found primarily in older male patients, particularly those who had spent many years outdoors, like farmers and construction workers. New studies are now showing changing trends, with more women and younger men developing basal cell carcinoma.

The main cause of basal cell carcinoma is believed to be overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays. The disease usually surfaces on the scalp, face and upper torso. Those most at risk for this type of skin cancer are people with fair skin, who have blond or red hair and blue, green or gray eyes. As well, people who work at outdoor professions are also prone to developing basal cell carcinoma. These people, such as construction workers, exterior house painters, oilrig workers or linespersons, are exposed to the damaging UV rays of the sun for extended periods of time. Sunbathers and other people who insist on staying in the sun without protection are also at risk. Many people believe that they are immune to basal cell carcinoma and other skin cancers only to find, too late, that they're definitely not.

While sun exposure remains the number one cause of skin cancers, there is a trend showing that other areas of the body can be affected. Sometimes the disease strikes parts of the body where sun exposure is unlikely, but where scars, tattoos, burns, and vaccinations had altered the skin.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of basal cell carcinoma is essential, as early detection can result in successful treatment. See your healthcare provider immediately if you see any of these signs:

* Sores that remain open, or reopen and will not heal after three to four weeks

* Reddish area that looks unusual or appears 'crusty', and alternates between itchy and painful. These spots are usually found on the limbs, chest, and shoulders.

* A shiny protuberance, almost transparent in appearance. These nodules can appear in almost any color: brown, tan, pink, or red. This sign of basal cell carcinoma is more common in dark haired people, and is often mistaken for a mole.

* Pink spots with raised edges and lowered centers.

* The most worrisome sign looks like nothing more than a scar, and can be yellow or white in color. The skin appears shiny and seems to be tightly stretched. This one is often a sign of a tumor that will create problems.

Should you notice any of these signs and symptoms, see your dermatologist or health care provider right away. If your doctor suspects that the area is cancerous, he or she will order a biopsy to confirm this suspicion. A positive diagnosis will be attended to immediately. Your doctor will schedule surgery to remove the growth, and will discuss a suitable treatment plan.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and it is treatable. Of course, prevention is the best form of cure, so cover up and protect your skin whenever you're exposed to the sun.