Skin Cancer: What You Need to Know

Skin cancer is an often misunderstood disease. Because it affects the skin, rather than an organ deep within the body, many people mistakenly believe that it's not as serious as other types of cancer. Part of my responsibility as president of the American College of Mohs Surgery is to help educate people and make them aware that skin cancer, if left untreated, can be devastating.

 Part of the reason people may tend not to take skin cancer seriously is, when caught early, 99% of skin cancers are treatable and can be cured if handled properly. This fact should not give people permission to ignore abnormalities in their skin; it should instead emphasize the extreme importance of early detection.

 So, let's start at the beginning and highlight what everyone needs to know about skin cancer and treatment:

 • What causes skin cancer? The primary cause is repeated exposure to ultraviolet light. People who allow themselves to be exposed to ultraviolet light - either outdoors or in tanning booths - are at a higher risk of developing cancer.

 Tanning booths are creating increased concern in recent years. In fact, the World Health Organization has elevated tanning booths to its highest rating for cancer risk - the same rating it gives cigarettes. Additionally, people with suppressed immune systems, including solid organ transplant recipients, have a higher risk of developing skin cancer because their immune systems are not able to defend against the development of cancerous cells.

• What are the various types of skin cancer? Many types exist, but 3 of them are by far the most common, accounting for about 99% of cases. They are: melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.

o Melanoma is the most dangerous type. It causes more than 75% of all skin cancer related deaths. A melanoma is usually brown or black in color and looks like a mole. It can often be successfully treated if diagnosed early, but once it begins to spread to other parts of the body, the chances of curing melanoma are substantially reduced.

 o Squamous cell carcinoma forms just below the surface of the skin. It most often develops in areas that have been exposed to sun. However, it can also occur in other areas of the body, such as the mucous membranes or genitals. In the beginning, it looks like a thick, rough, scaly patch of skin, but it can spread and become life threatening.

 o Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It begins in basal cells, which are also located beneath the surface of the skin. It takes on a variety of appearances, such as a shiny bump, a reddish irritated area of skin, or a sore that never completely heals. It usually progresses more slowly than the other types, but early detection is also essential to prevent it from spreading.

 • What do you need to watch for? While the symptoms described above are the most common signs, it can present itself in a variety of ways. The best rule is to always be aware of any new or unexpected change in your skin. Yearly skin checks with your dermatologist can provide a baseline for any questionable areas that may change over time. If you develop a new growth or skin irritation that doesn't heal, consult with a dermatologist as soon as possible.

 Yes, skin cancer is serious business, but when diagnosed early it can usually be cured. One of the main reasons for this is the successful development of a highly effective treatment known as

Mohs micrographic surgery. Mohs is an extremely precise surgical technique that can remove cancerous cells from the skin without harming the surrounding healthy tissue.

Read Full Article, Click Here Now ....

The Second Most Common Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world. Over 2 million cases of this disease are diagnosed each year and if not detected early it can lead to surgery and even death. Every year between 40 and 50% of all cancer cases are diagnosed as skin cancer.

There are two main types of skin cancer; malignant melanoma and non-melanoma. The most common types of non-melanoma cancer are Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma, and approximately 79% of Malignant Melanoma cases relate to deaths.

These cancers account for only 4% of all skin cancer cases but are by far the most dangerous. Melanoma is more likely than non-melanoma to spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body. It is estimated that over 12 thousand people with some type of skin cancer will die this year.

 The skin is the largest organ of the human body, measuring approximately twenty square feet for the average adult. It can be considered as the most resilient organ in the human body. The skin is divided into layers; the Epidermis (upper most), the Basement Membrane, the Dermis, and the Hypodermis/Subcutis.

It covers the internal organs and bones and protects them from injury and germs, and prevents the loss of too much fluid. The skin is vital in the control of body temperature and it gets rid of some wastes through perspiration. Certain cells in the skin communicate with the brain to allow temperature, touch, and pain sensations.

 Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells that when left unchecked, spread from the skin to other tissues and organs of the body. More cases of skin cancer are being diagnosed as time goes on. Studies have shown that heavy exposure to the sun's ultraviolet radiation (UVR) lead to skin cancer and other skin problems.

These studies have shown that 65 to 90% of melanomas are caused by over exposure to ultraviolet light (sunshine, tanning beds and tanning lights), but it has also been shown to run in families and may also be genetic. The second most common form of skin cancer is Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and approximately 700,000 cases are diagnosed each year with approximately 2,500 deaths.

It is one of the less aggressive skin cancers in that when detected early it may be easily controlled or removed through minor surgery. This cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells arising in the Squamous cells, which compose most of the skin's epidermis (upper layers).

 This type of cancer is mainly caused by cumulative UVR exposure over the course of a lifetime and may not occur until many years after receiving the original damage to the skin, which makes it necessary to see a dermatologist at its first signs.

The most common areas for this cancer are those that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the rim of the ear, lower lip, face, bald scalp, neck, hands, arms and legs. Skin damage can appear as wrinkling, changes in pigmentation, and loss of elasticity in the skin.

 Exposure to UVR s the cause for most cases of Squamous cell cancer. The condition develops due to the fact that UV radiation damages the DNA in an individual's skin cells. The more damage to the DNA, the more likely the skin cells will grow out of control and develop a Squamous cell carcinoma.

Most cases of Squamous cell cancer may be prevented, and there are several ways to do this; by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, avoiding midday sun, limiting your time in direct sunshine, don't use tanning beds or lamps, and checking your skin regularly. Squamous cell cancer is a easily treatable and preventable type of skin cancer.

However, it can still be deadly and needs to be detected and treated early. Squamous cell cancer very rarely causes further problems when identified and treated early. Untreated, it can grow large or spread to other parts of your body, causing serious complications. Call for an appointment with your health care professional if you observe a sore or spot on your skin that changes in: appearance, color, size, texture, or if an existing spot becomes painful or swollen, or if it starts to bleed or itch.

Read Full Article, Click Here Now ....

Guarding Against Skin Cancer

Almost everyone loves to get outside and spend a few hours in the sun; however, many people do not realize the dangers that the sun presents. Although sunlight gives energy, provides people with a mental boost, and is important for Vitamin D, too much exposure can cause someone to be diagnosed with skin cancer.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and although the sunlight is usually the primary cause of this cancer, other factors can also be responsible. People who have a family history of cancer, spend lots of hours in tanning beds, or have sensitive skin will be at a higher risk for developing this type of cancer.

Luckily, there are several ways in which people can prevent being diagnosed with this disease. Pay attention to medication Many medications contain ingredients that will increase a person's chances of getting sunburns, and unfortunately, sunburns can drastically increase the risk of developing skin cancer.

Therefore, people should consult with their doctors to determine if their medications will increase their sensitivity to the sunlight. Wear sunscreen People should always be sure to wear sunscreen daily. Even if it is a cloudy day, sunscreen should be worn.

Since many experts agree that the ozone layer is weakening, people can no longer rely on natural protection against the sunlight. When choosing a sunscreen to wear, people should be sure to choose one that has at least an SPF 15 or higher.

Also, people should be sure to apply the sunscreen every 30 minutes or as recommended by the label. Protective clothing Another way to prevent skin cancer is by wearing protective clothing. If the skin is covered, the sunlight cannot harm it.

One piece of clothing that is good to wear is a wide-brimmed hat. These hats will cover a large portion of the individual's face and neck. Additionally, some clothing is specifically designed to protect the person against the sun's UV rays.

This type of clothing is especially helpful for people who will be in the sun for long periods of time. Avoid tanning beds Although many people desire to get tans throughout the year, tanning beds can be extremely dangerous.

Tanning beds expose people to UV rays; however, these rays are much more dangerous than the sun's UV rays. People who use tanning beds regularly will have a much higher chance of developing melanoma, which is one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer.

 Avoid sunlight Although the sun is extremely important and extremely enjoyable, it can present many dangers. Therefore, people should try to spend time outdoors during the evening hours as opposed to the sun's peak hours.

Read Full Article, Click Here Now ....

Is Your Winter Skin Care Optimized? Here's Some Tips. . .

By Wm Beadell

The methods in which we handle our skin should be dependent on the type of climate we are experiencing at the time.

In fact as varied as our climate and weather change throughout the year; our skin care needs to be treated accordingly. It can be quite disconcerting trying to maintain healthy skin. In this article we will take a look at a few of the things that you can do to help yourself have great skin during those cold and dry winter months.

If you thought you could put your sunscreen away until summer, think again! First off, don't fall into the group of people who think that sunscreen is only for summer. Well, UV rays can still harm your skin, even in the wintertime. They penetrate the clouds in the same way they do during the summertime. Therefore, it's easy to understand why wearing sunscreen in the winter and the summer is important. The sunscreen will also help your skin retain its moisture, helping prevent it becoming dry and flaky if you are out and about during colder weather. The nice thing is that, during the winter, you don't have to worry as much about covering your whole body. You can stick to just your face and your hands.

Your lips are at particular risk during the cold and winter months. It's not unusual to see someone whose lips have become cracked and are peeling as a result of cold, dry winter weather. It's to your best interest to keep your lips protected all the time. Always wear a chap stick, or lip balm, during the winter. It's also not a good idea to lick your lips. So, if you do this habitually, pay attention and stop yourself. You can also keep your lips protected by keeping them hidden behind a scarf whenever you go outside. This is a great way to protect your lips, as well as your throat and nose.

Sure this might cost you some dough now, but it will save you money in failed product trials all season long.

It's important to keep in mind that your skin care routine doesn't change during the different seasons.

As luck would have it, you are saved from the misery that the cold used to bring. There are tons of things you can do to maintain fresh looking skin. If you get discouraged when trying some of these products, you need to bear in mind that the perfect product for your skin will likely not be the first couple that you try; you just have not tried the right one yet.

About the Author:

Most of us use multilayered clothing to get rid of the cold especially when outside, if you hate cold hands battery heated gloves are for you. Read more on how these work great comfort for hands in the winter here heated motorcycle gloves now.

Read Full Article, Click Here Now ....

Hang In There: Cancer Fighting Tips And Tricks

By Helen Richardson

Articles such as this one can help keep you informed, and give you ideas on how to enjoy life, even with a difficult condition.

It's especially important for cancer patients to quit smoking. The sooner you quit after receiving your diagnosis, the better your chances for long-term recovery from the disease. One of the worst things you can do after being diagnosed with cancer is to continue smoking or using tobacco products. There is no sound basis for assuming that continuing this unhealthy habit is justified by illness. However, the chemicals that are contained within the cigarette will impede your recovery process.

Staying in shape will keep you healthy, which will in turn make it easier to deal with your cancer treatments. A healthy body is more likely to fight off cancer risks than a body that is already over-burdened with excess weight. Ask your doctor to prescribe you a weight loss plan which is healthy and comprehensive, even referring you to a nutritionist if necessary. If you are already at a healthy weight, maintain it with regular physical activity and a balanced diet.

Some screenings can detect if there's cancer, others can find the problems and prevent the cancer. Time can quickly slip by, so it is very important to have these screenings on schedule.

Exercise is always important, and this is true of you are in a cancer fight. Exercise helps boost the flow of blood throughout the body. By being active, the treatment you are getting can go throughout your whole body simpler.

It is important for cancer patients to have open communication with doctors, friends and family members. Many people will try to protect you by putting on their brave face. When you can openly and honestly express your feelings and fears with those around you, they will be able to offer you the support you need.

Many people are aware that wild salmon is a great addition to their diet. Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon, along with lower mercury levels compared to other fish, can actually help prevent cancer. Try to eat wild salmon at least twice weekly to keep the cancer producing cells at bay.

You should actively always keep looking for more resources and information. The more knowledge you have, the better prepared you are for winning, no matter what the subject. And situations do not get more severe than cancer. Use what you've read here to maintain your health and live a long and happy life.

About the Author:

Looking for info ? natural cancer treatment blog for the best advice.

Read Full Article, Click Here Now ....

What You Must Know About Skin Cancer Detection

By Esther Sangiovanni

Today I would like to share the most important symptoms of skin cancer. The sun's ultraviolet radiation is an important factor in its appearance. Therefore, you must know how critical is to detect any symptom as quickly as possible.

To better understand which are the most common symptoms of skin cancer, I'll show it in two different types of skin cancer:

1) No-melanoma cancer: Although this one is not dangerous of painful, it can be found as a small and shiny lump (or mole), sometimes pale in color and texture. You can also recognize it as a red and firm lump, a sore or spot that bleeds or become crusty and non healing wounds. This can be scaly patches of skin that are red or brown. If you experience any growth of these things, please consult to a dermatologist as quickly as possible.

2) Melanoma cancer: If you detect any change in size, shape, color and / or texture of a mole in your skin, it could be a possible symptom of melanoma. It is usually detected as a portion of the surface of black or blue-black. Yet it may also show as a new spot where there was not, usually black with abnormal appearance.

It is extremely essential to check your skin periodically so to proceed to its diagnosis and treatment at an early stage of development. Otherwise, there is a risk that the cancer cells can grow under the skin surface and spread. But you can ask "how can I do that?". There are two ways to do so.

1) Skin examination: When you go to a doctor or nurse, they will check your skin for any existence of bumps or spots that look abnormal in color, size, texture or shape.

2) Biopsy: In this case, the doctor has found an abnormal-looking growth in your skin, and it needs to be totally or partially removed. After that, a pathologist check it under a microscope in order to find possible presence of cancer cells. There are three main types of skin biopsies:

-Shave biopsy: A sterile razor blade to "shave" the abnormal-looking growth is used.

-Punch biopsy: It is necessary to use a special instrument called a punch to remove a circle of tissue from the abnormal- looking growth.

-Excisional biopsy: A scalpel is used, in order to remove the entire growth

You need to know your skin all the time. The greatest part is that a skin test may not take more than 10 minutes. If you want to live longer, share with your family and loved ones, take some time for you to know your skin. That's your health, and you deserve it.

I hope you found this information very useful. Spread the voice and share this article to everyone you know, because anybody can be detected with skin cancer.

All the success!.

About the Author:

Learn more about skin care. Stop by Esther Sangiovanni's blog where you can find out all about skin cancer care and what it can do for you.

Read Full Article, Click Here Now ....

Cancer Detection And Dermatologists

By Leon Perkins

For those who have any kind of fears about melanoma, a dermatological doctor can set your mind at ease and assist you to get around the problem if it arises. Many people discover some thing on their skin which causes concern however they just are not certain if they should visit a doctor. Without doubt, you should visit your primary care physician or dermatologist. They can make it easier to resolve if you should consult a specialist. Generally, it is always safer to err to the side of caution.

Risk Factors:If you or someone in your family has experienced skin cancer in the past, it is important for you to make regular appointments with a dermatologist. He or she can keep an eye on your skin and look out for certain warning signs of melanoma. These regular visits are set up to not only keep you healthy but also to provide you with some peace of mind.

There are more skin cancer risk factors that are usually significant. If you've got very fair skin tone and have a tendency to sun burn very easily or blister or you are incredibly sun sensitive, you ought to be examined frequently. If you've got uncommon looking skin moles or perhaps an large quantity of moles, you have to be examined frequently. These examinations come to be much more essential if you're observing that a few of the skin moles may be changing shape or dimensions, or both equally.

Less frequent risk factors involve people who have a record of x-ray therapies to handle acne or people consuming some types of prescription drugs. Even though none of these variables guarantees you will encounter cancer of the skin, they're aspects which should be reviewed with the skin doctor frequently. Whatever the expense of the consultation, each visit is definitely worth it. Understand that the sooner a concern is recognized, the better prospect you and the skin doctor have to take care of it.

Suspicious Lesions:Self-examination is just one way that you can prevent skin cancer. Once the disease spreads, the prognosis often takes a negative downturn so the goal is to look for anything out of the ordinary or suspicious on a regular basis. This disease affects people of all ages, races, and socioeconomic status.

As you are looking over your body, keep an eye out for certain things that would warrant a visit to the dermatologist. These things include moles that are growing, places on the skin that tend to either bleed or scab up but never seem to heal and new moles that are starting to pop up. In each of these situations, an examination by a specialist is essential. If you see something that does not fit into any of these specific categories but you think it looks unusual, contact your doctor right away and make an appointment.

Read Full Article, Click Here Now ....