Skin Cancer Is Not Always as Clear as Day

Skin cancer is a deadly condition that can affect anyone under the sun. And few people realize that skin cancer can appear anyplace on your body, from the most noticeable areas to places you never even give a second glance. This is especially frightening because you can be walking be around with early signs that are so hidden that you aren’t aware until they’re discovered by a provider. There are three primary skin cancer types. The most common kind is basal cell carcinoma, with the second-most common known as squamous cell carcinoma, and the most serious type called melanoma. In Florida, the constant exposure to the strong rays of the sun greatly increases your risk of all kinds of skin cancer, so you can’t afford to ignore this major health risk. Since your best protection is early detection, MD Now Urgent Care providers can examine any skin lesions you have and refer you to a dermatologist if necessary. We also wanted to share this valuable information on how to detect hidden signs of skin cancer and protect yourself properly.

How to Detect Skin Cancer on the Spot

The primary signs of skin cancer are colored or raised moles and freckles that suddenly appear on the skin. Medical specialists have seen these signs develop anywhere on the body, even the most unexpected places such as the scalp, the soles of the feet, and the genital area. Since these areas are usually out of your personal view, the signs are typically discovered during routine visits to a hairdresser or provider. Most sufferers have no idea that they have any signs of skin cancer because they never thought to look in these rarely seen areas. The three main skin cancer types are:

• Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most prevalent type that tends to develop after years of regular sun exposure and indoor tanning. It typically looks like a pink patch of skin or a flesh-colored bump. Early diagnosis and skin cancer treatment are vital because it can spread to surrounding bones and tissues and cause damage and disfigurement.

• Squamous cell carcinoma: This kind is almost as common as basal cell carcinoma and frequently develops on skin that receives regular sun exposure, such as the face, neck, ears, back, and chest. It resembles a scaly patch, a firm reddish bump, or a recurring sore. Over time, this condition can spread deep into the skin and lead to disfigurement and damage. But early diagnosis and skin cancer treatment can stop the condition from spreading throughout the body.

• Melanoma: This is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and often appears as a dark mole or sudden dark mark on the skin. This life-threatening cancer demands urgent melanoma treatment.

Shedding Light on How to Save Yourself from Skin Cancer

While healthcare experts urge people to wear sunscreen, solar-protection clothing, and hats whenever they’re outdoors, most people only protect the most obvious parts of their body like their face and arms. They completely overlook the rest of their body and put themselves at risk. Fortunately, medical experts have shared the following smart and simple strategies for protecting yourself from skin cancer:

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 all over your body, from the top of your forehead to the soles of your feet, whenever you’ll be exposed to the sun.
• Always wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
• Examine your toenails and fingernails regularly.
• Ask your hair stylist or family member to periodically take a close look at your scalp.
• Continually reapply sunscreen every few hours when outdoors, after you’ve been in the water, and when you’ve been sweating.
• Visit a dermatologist on a regular basis for professional skin cancer screenings.