What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer is a tumor or growth that grows in the skin cells. There are two main types of skin cancer, melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. Melanoma is less common but it is more serious as it can spread to other organs very quickly. There is a good chance that skin cancer can be cured if diagnosed and treated early.

About skin cancer

The skin is made up of three layers

  • The epidermis
  • The dermis
  • Supporting layer of loose tissue and fat

Cancer can start from cells in any of these layers

Symptoms of skin cancer any mole or lesion that

  • gets bigger
  • changes shape and changes color
  • becomes inflamed
  • is itchy or painful
  • bleeds or is crusty

Causes of skin cancer

The main risk factor for skin cancer is exposure to the sun.

The factors that may increase your risk of skin cancer include:

  • A family history of skin cancer
  • Skin that has a lot of moles
  • Bad sunburn at some time on the past
  • If you work outside
  • Age – people over 60 are more at risk
  • Smoking
  • scarring from burns or skin ulcers
  • Exposure to certain chemicals – a weakened immune system

Treatment

  • Surgery
  • Radiotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Chemotherapy to reduce your risk of skin cancer you should minimize your exposure to the sun
  • Always use a sunscreen with a protection factor of 15 plus
  • Wear protective clothing
  • Stay in the shade as much as possible-especially between 11am and 3pm

IF YOU NOTICE ANY CHANGES IN YOUR SKIN YOU SHOULD VISIT YOUR DOCTOR