Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. When the skin is exposed to UV rays, the DNA of the skin cells become damaged. This causes the cells to multiply very fast, causing tumours. Effectively controlling UV exposure is the key to protecting yourself from skin cancer. Having a family history of skin cancer also increases your risk of developing skin cancer. We recommend applying a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day. Re-apply your sunscreen every 2 hours, especially if you are swimming, exercising or sweating.
Skin cancer is a medical condition that involves the abnormal growth of cells in the skin. Skin cancer mostly develops on skin which is exposed to the sun. According to dermatologic oncologists, there are 3 major types of skin cancer – basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma. Some types of skin cancer can spread to other parts of the body. Not all skin cancers are identical, and the symptoms they cause can vary. However, some general signs to watch out for include skin tags, dark spots, new moles and skin lesions with uneven edges.
Skin cancer is becoming more common. It is a dangerous type of cancer and can spread to other parts of the body. According to experts, skin cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers. Skin cancer develops over time, with prolonged exposure to direct UV rays. Effectively controlling UV exposure during childhood, when the skin is supple and sensitive, seems to be the key to mitigating skin cancer risk in adulthood. Skin cancer can afflict anyone, regardless of age, gender and race. However, people who use tanning beds, live in high-altitude areas and have a family history of skin cancer have a higher risk of developing skin cancer. About 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer over their lifetime.
There are 3 major types of skin cancer:
1. Basal cell carcinoma – This type of skin cancer begins in the basal cells, which produce new skin cells as old cells die. Basal cell carcinoma often appears as small, transparent bumps on the skin. They develop most often on skin that is exposed to constant sunlight, like the face and the neck. Basal cell carcinoma begins to form due to a mutation in the DNA of the basal cells, leading to excess multiplication. This is the most common type of skin cancer.
2. Squamous cell carcinoma – This type of cancer is caused by an overproduction of squamous cells in the epidermis (the top layer of the skin). Prolonged sun damage appears to trigger this. This type of cancer commonly appears on the head, neck, arms and legs. Squamous cell carcinoma is not life-threatening, but they can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
3. Melanoma – Melanoma begins in the melanocytes in the skin, the cells that make the pigment melanin. Melanin gives skin its colour. The tumour often starts as an unusual-shaped, dark mole, which grows suddenly. Melanoma also commonly occurs on the face, neck, arms and legs. Sometimes it is also known to form in the eyes, and sometimes inside the nose and throat. The risk of melanoma is higher in women and people above the age of 40. This is the most serious type of skin cancer. It can be treated successfully if found early.
Other types of skin cancer include kaposi sarcoma, merkel cell carcinoma, sebaceous gland carcinoma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
The main cause of skin cancer is overexposure to sunlight. The UV rays in the sun damage the DNA in your skin. This causes abnormal growths to form on the skin due to rapid, disorganised cell division. Having a family history of skin cancer increases your risk of developing skin cancer.
Even if you’re not at a high risk of developing skin cancer, you need to take precautions to protect your skin from sun damage. Here are some tips to help protect your skin:
Use a sunscreen – dermatologists suggest applying an SPF 30 (or higher) sunscreen with UVA and UVB filters. Use this sunscreen every morning, even on days when it is cloudy. It is also recommended to re-apply the sunscreen every 2 hours, especially if you’re swimming, exercising or sweating outdoors. Remember to also apply sunscreen on the parts of your body not covered by clothing, and especially on the ears. It is crucial to do this every day, on a long-term basis.
Limit exposure to direct sunlight – Unless absolutely necessary, don’t expose yourself to direct sunlight. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when you are outdoors. An umbrella is also a good tool for sun protection. Try to stay in the shade especially between 10am and 3pm, when the sun is brightest. Clothes can also provide protection from sun damage. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting, breathable clothes.
Avoid tanning beds – Indoor tanning beds use focused UV radiation to tan the skin. This causes unnecessary skin damage and premature aging.
Perform regular skin self-exams – It is usually recommended that you do a skin self-exam once a month. The best time to check your skin is usually after a bath. You will need to perform the self-exam in a well-lit room with a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror. Carefully go over the entire body, checking for moles, blemishes, freckles and other marks. It might be a good idea to take pictures or videos so you can track any abnormal growths, new moles, warts or sores.
Be cautious around reflective surfaces – When you are around surfaces like water, snow, sand or large glass buildings, they reflect the damaging rays of the sun. They can sometime focus sunlight on your skin and cause sun burns.
Get regular skin checkups – Visit a dermatologist once a year, especially if you have any risk factors for skin cancer. Educate yourself on your family history of skin cancer, and keep your dermatologist informed.
Consider vitamin D supplements – Get a vitamin D test done. Most south asians have low levels of vitamin D. Your doctor will advise you if you need vitamin D supplements and what dose to take.
For expert guidance and comprehensive care related to skin cancer, visit Kauvery Hospital. With branches in Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli, and Trichy, Kauvery Hospital offers advanced dermatological services and personalized treatment plans to help you protect your skin and overall health. Don’t wait—take proactive steps to safeguard your skin today.
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and pediatric trauma care.
Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4003500 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 6801
