Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in America. As we raise awareness on how to prevent skin cancer this month, we want to ensure you can identify some of the common types.
Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
These are the most common forms of skin cancer, and are collectively referred to as non-melanoma skin cancers. They commonly arise within the top layer of the skin and are most frequently found on areas that get the most direct exposure to the sun such as the face, ears, scalp, and neck.
What do they look like?
Basal cell carcinoma frequently appears as a pearly bump, whereas squamous cell carcinoma often looks like a rough, red, scaly area, or an ulcerated bump that bleeds.
Source: Google Images
Melanoma
Known as the deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma kills more than 20 Americans on a daily basis.
What does it look like?
Melanoma may suddenly appear without warning, but can also develop from or near an existing mole. It can occur anywhere on the body, but is most common on the upper back, torso, lower legs, head, and neck. New, rapidly growing moles, or moles that itch, bleed, or change color are often early warning signs of melanoma and should be examined by a dermatologist. While it is the “deadliest” form of skin cancer, if detected early and treated properly, melanoma is highly treatable.
Easily check for Melanoma using the ABC’s
- A is for Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
- B is for Border irregularity: The edges are ragged, notched, or blurred.
- C is for Color that varies from one area to another.
- D is for Diameter: While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, they can be smaller.
- E is for Evolving: A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.
Source: Google Images
Identifying skin cancer is the first step to treating it. Early identification leads to positive outcomes! When in doubt, we encourage you to contact us and schedule an appointment to have any spots checked by our team of board certified dermatologists.
The information presented in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Sources for the above information include The American Academy of Dermatology. If you have questions or concerns, please call our office or make an appointment with a medical professional. Savannah River Dermatology is located at 575 Furys Ferry Rd in Augusta, Ga. Our office can be reached at 706-691-7079.
