The skin is the largest organ of the human body. Skin cancers are among the leading cancers seen all over the world. Although it is more common on sun-exposed areas of the body, it can also be seen on sun-free areas. As with all cancers, early diagnosis of skin cancers is of great importance in the treatment phase. Sun exposure, smoking, age, family history, light skin color are some risk factors for the formation of cancer. Skin cancers are divided into 2 groups as melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a cancer that arises from the melanocyte cells in our skin that give the skin its color. Although it is less common than other skin cancers, the majority of deaths due to skin cancers are caused by melanoma. If not diagnosed early, it can spread rapidly to other organs of the body via lymph and blood. While most of this skin cancer develops spontaneously, some develop over a pre-existing mole (nevi). When diagnosed at an early stage, it can be effectively treated. For this reason, if there is a change in the character (color, shape, size) of the moles on the body, a dermatologist should be consulted. Your dermatologist will determine the risk level of your mole by using the ABCDE rule method after examining the moles.
ABCDE rule;
- (Asymmetry); one half of the mole does not resemble the other half,
- (Border); Irregular mole borders,
- (Color); the color of the mole is not homogeneous,
- (Diameter); mole greater than 6 mm in diameter,
- (Evolution); It is a change in the character of a pre-existing self.
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
Non-melanoma skin cancers are the most common types of skin cancer. This group includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma; It is more common in sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears and hands. It is a pinkish-red color on the surface of the skin, with dandruff on it and in the form of a raised lesion that does not heal spontaneously. The lesion grows very slowly where it is located and the risk of spreading is very low. Squamous cell carcinoma; It occurs on the face, lips, ears, hands and legs. It starts as a small lesion, grows larger and does not heal on its own. If left untreated, they turn into deep sores and can spread to other organs.
Ways to Prevent Skin Cancers
Protection from excess sun rays is of great importance in reducing the formation of skin cancers. Avoiding exposure to direct sunlight, especially in summer, at noon, wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen creams and lotions, making a habit of using hats and glasses, and not being exposed to ultraviolet rays such as solarium for a long time are the most effective measures to protect against skin cancers. In addition, for the early diagnosis of melanoma, it is of great importance for the person to check their own skin at intervals and to consult a dermatologist when differentiation is detected in the moles.
