SKIN CANCER and its types

SKIN CANCER basically refers to the cancer which arises or develop in the tissues of the skin and make changes in the cells of skin. It is one of the most common cancers of all the cancers. Every year about one million new cases are registered and these rates are increasing day by day and its gaining public concern. It has been estimated that one out of two Americans develops skin cancer in their life time. One thing that is on our side is that skin cancer has the highest survival rates all over the globe of about 75%.

There are three types of skin cancer that are described as :-

1. Basal cell skin cancer :- This is the most common skin cancer which is found among the skin cancer patients. About 75% of skin cancers that are diagnosed are supposed to be basal cell skin cancer or basal cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma is rarely been fatal. This is most easily treated skin cancer and most common in people having fair skin. This is mainly caused by prolonged exposure of body to sunlight. It experiences irritation, yellow or white scar, blood from the affected area or pink pearly bump on face or neck.

2. Squamous cell skin cancer :- This is second type of skin cancer which attacks our squamous cells and it is slightly more harmful than basal cell skin cancer. This is common in people having dark skin. This type of skin cancer is developed in areas which are not exposed to sunlight such as under arms, under legs, hands and fingers and hidden parts of body. In people having fair skin it develops in areas more prone to sunlight. It is more likely to spread in other body parts than basal cell skin cancer.

3. Melanoma :- It is the rarest of skin cancer but most dangerous of all three skin cancers. It is more likely to spread to other parts of the body. This type of cancer it most treatable if it is detected earlier. It happens on skin of head, neck and between hips.  It is rarest in people having dark skin but if it happens in them it happens on fingers and palm of hand. Melanoma affects the skin causes change in skin color or mole on skin. It forms irregular lining and it may be fatal if not treated.


REFERENCES :-
Cancer Quest
National Cancer Institute
About.com