Be Aware of the Numbers

Did you know that approximately 20% of patients diagnosed with skin cancer will experience a recurrence at some point? Studies suggest that between 30% to 50% of individuals with a non-melanoma skin cancer will experience a second non-melanoma skin cancer within five years. That recurrence risk increases by 2% to 10% for melanoma skin cancer survivors. Regular follow-up appointments, self-examinations of the skin, and sun protection are crucial for the prevention and detection of second skin cancers.

Risk Factors

Exposure to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as prolonged sun exposure, sunburns, and tanning beds, is the leading cause of skin cancer recurrence. Recurrent cases can serve as a wake-up call to readers about the importance of sun protection.

Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients or those with certain autoimmune diseases, also face a higher risk of recurrent skin cancer. Recognizing and monitoring these vulnerabilities can assist further research into improved preventive measures and tailored treatment options.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Recurrence

Following treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC), dermatologists recommend that you undergo a comprehensive skin examination by your dermatologist every 6 to 12 months for the initial five (5) years. It is important to note that recurrence can happen beyond the first five (5) years after treatment and you should consult your doctor for their personalized recommendations on determining the most suitable approach.

BCC recurrence is more common if the tumor is large, has unclear borders, has already recurred once, develops at a site previously treated with radiation therapy, surrounds a nerve, or grows aggressively. Additionally, individuals with a weakened immune system due to medications are more prone to a recurrent BCC.

The chances of BCC recurrence also depends on the patient’s initial treatment received. Mohs surgery has the lowest recurrence rate, with only 1% for primary BCC and 5.6% for recurrent BCC after 5 years. Excision is also highly effective, with a 2% recurrence rate.

Low-risk BCC treatments including curettage and electrodesiccation, topical medication, cryotherapy, or photodynamic therapy are not recommended if the BCC risk of recurrence is high.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Recurrence

Following treatment for a local squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), patients are recommended to have a complete skin examination with their dermatologist every 3 to 12 months during the first two years. It is documented that 70% to 80% of SCC recurrences occur within this time frame. Subsequent follow-up visits should be scheduled every 6 to 12 months for an additional three years. If the initial SCC has spread beyond the skin, it may be necessary to have more frequent follow-up visits. Patient’s should consult their doctor to determine their recommendation for your specific situation.

Some SCC tumors are more likely to recur than others. High-risk characteristics of BCC—listed above—are also risky for SCC. Additional risk factors for SCC include:

• Thicker (≥2 millimeters) or more invasive tumor (Clark level IV or V)
• A tumor that has grown around a nerve, lymph vessel, or blood vessel.
• Certain SCC subtypes can be seen under a microscope.
• Poorly differentiated or undifferentiated cells. (Differentiation means how much the cancer cells look like the normal tissue that it came from. Poorly differentiated cells grow and spread more quickly.)

Recurrence rates also vary by the initial treatment. Just like with BCC, Mohs surgery has the lowest 5-year recurrence rate (3%). It is the preferred treatment for SCC that is likely to recur. Excision is also highly effective, with a 5-year recurrence rate of 8%.

Low-risk SCC treatments including curettage and electrodesiccation cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and topical medication are not recommended if the SCC risk of recurrence is high.

Melanoma Recurrence

Following the treatment of a melanoma, patients should consult their physician to determine a recommended treatment schedule based on your cancer stage and the development of any symptoms. Here is an explanation of the different cancer stages:

• Stage 0 (melanoma in situ), yearly examinations are advised for life.
• Stage IA-IIA, examinations should be done every 6 to 12 months for five years, followed by yearly examinations for life.
• Stage IIB-IV, examinations are recommended every 3 to 6 months for 2 years, every 3 to 12 months for 3 years, and then yearly examinations for life. Imaging tests may be included in follow-up examinations under certain conditions, such as having symptoms of cancer recurrence or being at high risk of recurrent or metastatic melanoma.

The recurrence of melanoma is significantly influenced by the initial stage of the treated cancer. Melanoma of an early stage has a lower frequency of recurrence with a later time stamp. Conversely, melanoma of a later stage has a higher recurrence rate with a quicker time stamp. It is vitally important for patients to have lifetime follow-up examinations as melanoma can recur even after 10 years from initial treatment.

When it comes to skin cancer, the greater knowledge you have the better. When combining the ever important early detection and prevention of skin cancer with the known risk factors of skin cancer recurrences, we equip ourselves for the successful fight with a relentless opponent, skin cancer.

The post Unmasking Skin Cancer Recurrence Statistics appeared first on Associated Dermatologist.

Have you heard of melanoma? It’s a type of skin cancer that happens when the cells in your body start to grow out of control. Of course, this can occur anywhere in our bodies and must be caught early – as with all types of cancers – or it could spread. Thankfully, melanomas are much less common than other skin cancer forms! But don’t forget: they’re still dangerous if not spotted early enough.

Melanoma is a severe form of skin cancer that affects cells called melanocytes and can cause tumors to develop on the surface of your skin. It’s typically observed as black or brown spots but may also be pink, tan, or white if certain pigments are absent. This type of cancer tends to occur more often in lighter-skinned individuals than those with darker complexions; however, it can still affect anyone regardless of ethnicity – including areas such as palms/hands, soles/feet, and mucous membranes like eyes and mouth! Melanomas are even scarier because they’re much harder to detect early compared to other cancers, which means treatment further down the line could become way more challenging. So don’t take any chances when looking after yourself – remember, prevention (wearing sun protection!) always beats cure!

How many people are diagnosed with melanoma?

Cancer of the skin is by far the most common of all cancers. Melanoma accounts for only about 1% of skin cancers but causes many skin cancer deaths.

The American Cancer Society estimates that almost 100,000 new melanoma cases will be diagnosed in 2023. Sadly, close to 8,000 people are expected to succumb to the disease this year – a concerning number given recent advances in treatment, which have seen mortality rates decrease by an average of 5% per annum for adults under 50 and 3% for those aged over fifty since 2011.

Melanoma skin cancer affects people with vastly different risks depending on factors like age and ethnicity – White individuals have a staggering twenty times more chance than Black individuals. While the average diagnosed patient is 65, young adults are not exempt from this dangerous disease; in fact, it’s one of the most common cancers found among women under 30! These variables influence your individualized chance of developing melanoma – don’t forget to look into how these could affect you by reading relevant articles online or discussing them with professionals.

Melanoma: Statistics

Did you know that melanoma is the fifth most common cancer for both men and women in the United States? While it typically affects older people, 2,400 cases of this type of cancer were estimated to be diagnosed among young adults aged 15 – 29 just last year! It’s more than 20 times more common in White people compared to Black individuals. Women tend to have higher rates before they turn 50 whereas after age 50 there are usually greater numbers seen amongst men. So make sure your skin health stays a priority at any stage or gender-life cycle!

In the US alone over 97,000 adults will be diagnosed with skin c
ancer in 2023. Globally, that number stands at a staggering 324 thousand this year! It’s clear we need to really ramp up our efforts to combat melanoma; prevention is key for staying healthy and safe from these dangerous diagnoses.

For decades, cases of melanoma surged alarmingly – that is until the early 2000s. Thankfully for those under 50 years old, rate stabilized in women and even dipped slightly in men: a much-needed reprieve! Since 2015 however there’s been an upswing among people aged over 50; with rates edging forward by 1% or so per annum within females while males have remained steady.

With the perils of skin cancer becoming increasingly evident, it’s reassuring to see that teens and adults in their 20s are taking action. From 2007 – 2016 there was a notable 6% decline in adolescents aged 15-19 diagnosed with melanoma each year; meanwhile the number for those in their 20s decreased by 3%. However, unfortunately men from 30+ saw only a slight reduction while women remained steady. But why is this happening? We can thank increased sun protection practices plus less indoor tanning as contributing factors!

Melanoma may be rarer than other skin cancers, but it’s also much more deadly – accounting for around 7,990 deaths in the US alone this coming year. Thankfully though progress has been made with estimates showing that deaths from melanoma have gone down an average of 5% and 3%, respectively amongst those under 50 or over. This is thanks to advances in treatment which are making a real difference globally too – helping bring the worldwide death toll related to melanoma down by 57k last year!

Knowing your survival rate is a powerful tool for understanding melanoma prognosis. The relative survival rate helps doctors estimate how well a person with this condition may fare compared to someone without it over time, based on factors such as age and characteristics of the cancer itself. To break that down in easier terms; if out of 1,000 people similar in age and other traits – 900 were expected to be alive after 5 years before being diagnosed with the specific type of cancer studied here, then 810 would still be living at five year mark – making up 90% or 9/10ths who had survived due to treatment efforts!

Melanoma is an unpredictable condition, and its survival rate varies greatly depending on certain factors. For those with thin melanomas that have not spread to the lymph nodes or other sites, their 5-year relative survival rate stands at a promising 99%. However if it has progressed beyond this point then the prognosis isn’t as rosy – for cases where it has spread to nearby lymph glands the survival rate drops down to 71%, while once more distant parts of your body are affected you’re looking at 32% chance of living past five years. Thankfully medical advances in recent times mean these statistics do appear slightly less scary now than they may’ve been even 10 years ago! Whilst people should take comfort from these figures, though always consult with your doctor first about exactly what sort of outcome can be expected for each individual case.

The post Melanoma Skin Cancer Statistics appeared first on Associated Dermatologist.

Unlike cancers that develop inside the body, skin cancers form outside the epidermis and are usually visible. The good news is that skin cancer is generally curable if diagnosed and treated early. Learning to detect cancer early is critical, so looking for anything new, changing, or unusual on your skin is imperative. Dermatologists recommend scheduling an annual professional skin exam and checking your skin monthly to look for new and changing moles. Now that you know what causes skin cancer, let’s discuss one of the main types of skin cancer.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is an abnormal growth that arises from the skin’s basal cells and is the most common form of skin cancer.. The function of basal skin cells is to produce new skin cells in the epidermis and usually develop on skin areas exposed to the sun, including the face, ears, neck, nose, shoulders, and back. It is recorded that 3.6 million cases of BCC are diagnosed annually in the US. This estimate equates to about 8 out of 10 basal cell cancers.

Ultraviolet UV Rays

Several risk factors make a person more likely to develop BCC. Exposure to the sun’s UV rays is a significant risk factor in developing skin cancer. The sun’s UV rays damage the DNA inside an individual’s skin cells. Here are factors that increase your skin cancer risk: UV exposure (sun or indoor tanning), a history of skin cancer, males over 50 years of age, fair skin, chronic infections, and inflammations. Ninety percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to the ultraviolet rays from the sun.

Light-colored Skin

While anyone can develop skin cancer, people with light-colored skin have a much higher risk than those with darker skin tones. People with darker skin have the skin pigment melanin, which acts as a protective layer. However, people with light-colored skin that freckles or burns are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Albinism

Albinism is an inherited lack of protective skin pigment, which results in light-colored skin and a light hair color. This type of skin pigment is more sensitive to developing sunburns and skin cancers, so skin protection is highly advised.

Older

This risk of developing basal cell skin cancers does increase with age. This reason, explained by the American Cancer Society, is due to the buildup of sun exposure developed over time. However, skin cancers are becoming more common in younger people due to more time spent in the sun with exposed skin.

Male

The American Cancer Society reported that men are more likely than women to develop basal cell cancers of the skin due to the probability that men are getting more sun exposure.

Chemical exposure

The American Cancer Society describes that individuals who are or have been exposed to large amounts of arsenic (a natural element in rocks, soil, water, air, plants, and animals) can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Exposure can come in many ways, including the environment (agricultural and industrial sources), food, work (exposure to copper or lead smelting, wood treatment, and glass manufacturing), and community where exposure to the above is relevant. Workers exposed to coal tar, paraffin, and certain petroleum products may also have an increased risk of skin cancer.

Radiation exposure

Individuals who have undergone radiation treatment have a much higher risk of developing skin cancer in the area treated.

Previous skin cancer

Individuals with BCC are at a much higher risk of developing another cancer.

Other risks

• Other risks include individuals with long-term skin inflammation or injury, including severe burns and skin damage by severe skin inflammatory diseases, which are more likely to develop skin cancers.
• Psoriasis treatment in the form of both Psoralens and ultraviolet light (PUVA) can also increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
• Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare inherited skin condition that reduces the ability of skin cells to repair DNA damage caused by sun exposure. Individuals with XP often develop many skin cancers.

Stages

Determining the stage of basal cell skin cancers is rarely needed since these are most always treated and cured by Dermatologist before spreading to other parts of the body.

Treatments for Basal Cell Cancers

There are several types of treatment available to remove or destroy BCC. The treatment options available depend on factors such as the tumor size and location, person’s age, health, and preferences. These types of cancers rarely spread to other parts of the body, however, they can grow into nearby tissues if not properly treated.

• Surgery including curettage and electrodesiccation, excision, Mohs surgery
• Radiation therapy for treating tumors on the eyelids, nose, or ears
• Immune response modifiers, photodynamic therapy, topical chemotherapy for very superficial tumors
• Cryotherapy is not recommended for large tumors on certain parts of the nose, ears, eyelids, scalp, or legs
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy for advanced BCC can often shrink BCCs or slow their growth

For most individuals who have developed basal cell carcinoma, treatment often removes or destroys the cancer. For a small group of individuals with more advanced skin cancers, the cancer may not go away completely and may receive regular treatments of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or other treatments available to reduce the reoccurrence of the cancer. If you are diagnosed with a more aggressive type of skin cancer, it is imperative that a certified dermatologist treat that area.

The post Key Statistics for Basal Cell Skin Cancer appeared first on Associated Dermatologist.

There are two leading causes of skin cancer. These causes are the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and the use of UV tanning beds. Unlike cancers that develop inside the body, skin cancers form outside the epidermis and are usually visible. The good news is that in most cases skin cancer is curable if diagnosed and treated early. Learning how to detect cancer early is critical, so it is imperative to look for anything new, changing, or unusual on your skin. Dermatologists recommend scheduling an annual professional skin exam and also checking your skin monthly to look for new and changing moles. Now that you know what causes skin cancer let’s discuss the main types.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is an abnormal growth that arises from the skin’s basal cells. The function of basal skin cells is to produce new skin cells in the epidermis. They usually develop on skin areas exposed to the sun, including the face, ears, neck, nose, shoulders, and back. BCC is the most common form of skin cancer, with 3.6 million cases diagnosed in the United States annually. The factors that increase your risk include UV exposure (sun or indoor tanning), a history of skin cancer, males over 50 years of age, fair skin, chronic infections and inflammations. Ninety percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to UV rays from the sun.

The second type of skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). SCC is an uncontrolled abnormal growth of squamous cells. Squamous cells are thin, flat cells resembling fish scales on the epidermis. SCC is the second most common form of skin cancer, with 1.8 million cases diagnosed annually. SCCs are also commonly found on sun-exposed areas similar to BCC, like the ears, face, neck, and hands. If not detected early, SCC can grow more rapidly and metastasize. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, there are as many as 15,000 deaths each year from invasive SCC. Factors that increase risks include unprotected exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds, weakened immune system, history of skin cancer, males over the age of 50, fair skin, sun sensitive conditions, history of human papillomavirus, skin precancers, chronic infections, and skin inflammations.

The third type of skin cancer is melanoma. Melanoma is a cancer that develops from the skin cells that produce melanin pigment, the pigment providing skin color. This type of skin cancer often resembles moles and can develop from them as well. They can appear anywhere on the body including areas not exposed to the sun’s UV rays. Melanoma is often caused by extreme sun exposure like sunburn and risks also increase with tanning bed usage. Melanoma is the most dangerous of the three common forms because of its ability to rapidly spread to other organs if not treated early. Melanoma may appear flat, slightly raised and/or discolored on the skin with shades of tan, brown, black, red, pink, blue or white. It is often found in hard to see places including under the nail, soles of the feet, or palms of the hand. Similar to the other types of skin cancers, Melanoma’s risk factors include unprotected or excessive sun exposure, weakened immune system, on someone who has many moles, fair skin, history of skin cancer, and can run in families. In fact, one in every 10 patients has someone in their family who has had the disease. Good news is that melanoma is curable when detected in early stages of growth.

The last type of skin cancer is the Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) which is extremely rare and dangerous. The Merkel cells are located deep in the top layer of the epidermis connected to nerves. MCC is aggressive with a high risk for returning within two to three years after diagnosis. This uncommon form of skin cancer is treated by specialized physicians familiar with the disease. MCC is often found on sun-exposed areas of the body and can appear like a pearly pimple-like lump, sometimes skin-colored, red, purple, or bluish-red. According to the Skin Care Foundation, MCC is 40 times more rare than melanoma and is estimated to be one case per 130,000 people in the US. The risk factors include sun exposure, fair skin, people over 50 years, and a weakened immune system.

Skin cancer, the world’s most common cancer, is a relentless disease affecting one in five individuals by the age of 70. The good news is that most of these cancers are curable if diagnosed and treated early. Skin cancer develops on the surface of the body making it more visible to spot. Regular skin exams by both a dermatologist and individual home exams are crucial. Learning how to identify and what to look for on your skin gives you the power to detect early signs.

The post What Does the Beginning of Skin Cancer Look Like? appeared first on Associated Dermatologist.

Tattooing has become more popular, with a Pew Research Center survey reporting that 40% of young adults have at least one. Tattoos appeal to their customized art, which reflects individual personalities or honors others. While each individual has reasons for getting a tattoo, the question arises about its safety. 

Truthfully, they are much safer than decades past. The tattooing process involves the artist using a needle that injures the skin while inserting small amounts of color pigments. So if the wound heals properly, the result is a beautiful and permanent skin art. 

It is possible, however, that tattoos can lead to several risks, including allergic reactions, scarring, and skin infections. These risks can increase if the wound has healed improperly. Aside from the risks, is there any correlation between skin cancer and tattoo ink? The key to tattoo safety is ensuring the tattoo heals appropriately and using a safe and reputable tattoo artist. 

So is there a correlation between tattoos and skin cancer? This has been a question that researchers have been exploring for years. While there is no direct correlation between tattoos and skin cancer, some ingredients found in the tattoo may be linked to cancer. 

An article from The National Library of Medicine states that black tattoo ink can be dangerous. The ink contains a high level of benso(a)pyrene, which is listed as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). 

A change in skin pigmentation is one of the earliest signs of skin cancer. The cause of concern is when the body is “blacked out” with tattoo ink, individuals may not be able to notice these changes right away. For this reason, tattoos should never be placed over pre-existing moles, birthmarks, or other skin discolorations or abnormalities.

The post Is there a link between skin cancer and tattoos? appeared first on Associated Dermatologist.

Scheduling regular appointments with a dermatologist is an essential part of taking care of your skin, hair, and nails. Aside from helping you achieve flawless skin, dermatologists have the ability to catch skin cancer at its earliest stages and provide you with helpful resources and treatments.

Why Look For Dermatologists

By having a dermatologist you can benefit from their knowledge in educating, screening, and treating various skin issues. Having a dermatologist enables you to receive prescription treatments that are over-the-counter and present you with the most effective results for your acne. Specialists are trained to identify your skin type and provide you with recommended products and skin treatments that are safe and will work best just for you. 

Many patients suffer from eczema, scars, and other types of skin damage. Maintaining healthy skin and preventing more damage can be difficult on your own. A dermatologist can be used as a great way to learn the best practices for taking care of your skin especially if you have experienced problems in the past with acne scars, discoloration of the skin, or stretch marks. Everyone’s skin care routine is different. For example, it can be difficult to find products for those with sensitive skin. Most generic skin care products you find in stores can strip the skin and leave your face dry and irritated. 

Visit your dermatologist to get solutions to your skin problems right away and skip the frustration of spending an endless amount of money testing all the skin care products on the market. From cleansers, scrubs, moisturizers, toners, and more, you and your dermatologist can come up with the perfect skin care routine that will keep your skin looking healthy.

Protecting Your Skin

It can be difficult to know where to start when you decide you want to make healthy skin a priority in your life. Thoroughly taking care of your skin for the first time is a lifestyle change and having specialized guidance is crucial to achieving healthy skin, hair, and nails. 

Healthy skin doesn’t occur just from having a good skincare routine. Preventative actions also make a difference. If you wear makeup regularly, your dermatologist may recommend you avoid certain products or suggest safer ones to try. Dermatologists can also suggest hypoallergenic makeup brands or brands that are geared more towards sensitive skin. They can educate you about harmful practices you may be unconsciously doing on a regular basis that are damaging your skin overtime. 

Sunscreen is a must. Many underestimate its importance and forget to implement it into their daily routine. By using moisturizers and makeup that protects your skin from harmful rays, you can decrease your chances of developing skin cancer and other damage.

Skin Cancer

The rapid growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis is caused by unrepaired DNA damage that triggers mutation. The out-of-control growth can cause tumors to form so it’s important to schedule regular skin check ups or screenings with your dermatologist to ensure you are healthy. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays or tanning beds, it increases the chances of developing skin cancer. However, today’s technology makes it possible to catch skin cancer early and  provide patients with special treatments as soon as possible. 

Your dermatologist can provide you with resources, information, and the treatment you need to obtain healthy skin. By visiting a dermatologist, you increase your chances of detecting skin cancer in its earliest stages. Moles or certain spots on your skin have the ability to change in color, size, or shape. These signs can be checked by a dermatologist in order to verify if it is a serious matter because these symptoms often point to skin cancer. By catching skin cancer early, you may be able to receive treatments that leave little to no scarring.

What to Expect at Your First Dermatology Appointment

Your first dermatology appointment is all about developing a relationship with your dermatologist. After filling out your paperwork with medical information, you will meet with a dermatologist and discuss potential concerns about your skin, hair, or nails. A full body examination will take place to get a baseline of your skin type. It’s important to identify whether you have sensitive skin, normal skin, dry skin, oily skin, or both. This will allow your dermatologist to recommend treatments and products that best fit you. You will most likely dress down to your underwear and gown to be checked head to toe. Your dermatologist may use a special magnifying glass called a dermatoscope to thoroughly check for skin problems. If there is a suspicion of something serious, a biopsy may be required to investigate the matter in order to stay on top of your health.

With communication being an essential part of your first appointment, it is necessary to be open and express your concerns, and ask lots of questions. Your dermatologist can educate you about treatments, products, and healthy skin care practices that may benefit you and your unique skin type. Dermatologists can also inform you on how to check for warning signs of skin cancer as well. Bring a list of the products you currently use such as makeup, cleansers, and more for your dermatologist to reference when deciding what may be preventing you from having healthy skin you desire.

Preparing For Your Visit

Do you know how to prepare for your first dermatology visit? It is okay if you’re lost. The process can be confusing at first. When taking care of your skin, it is quite common to run into challenges along the way. Luckily, dermatologists are ready to help and assist you through what you may feel is an “uphill battle”.

To prepare for your first visit, you should start by checking with your health insurance plan. This enables you to get an idea of what services are covered or if you need a referral from your primary care doctor before proceeding with setting up an appointment. Upon arrival, make sure you have the necessary identification and medical cards on hand. It is a great idea to make a list of questions for your dermatologist. You should also make note of all medications you take and let your dermatologist know before they move forward with any prescribed drugs. The first visit appointment can be a great way to develop a relationship between you and the dermatologist.

Associated Dermatologists are all board-certified specialists, and we want to help YOU fight through your medical dermatology needs. See all our services we offer so that you can achieve healthy skin, hair, and nails today.

The post What Happens at Your First Dermatology Appointment appeared first on Associated Dermatologist.

Exposure to Sunlight Poses the Highest Risk

If you have spent a great deal of time in the sun without any type of protection, you may be a candidate for skin cancer. Ultraviolet rays, a small component of sunlight, are damaging to the surface of your body. They are harmful to the DNA found in your skin cells. This can trigger abnormal cell growth on the surface of your body, leading to basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer, or melanoma. If you have been sunburned many times over the years, your risk increases. Studies have shown that men tend to be in a higher risk group than women.

The Tone of Your Skin Can Have an Impact on Your Risk

If you are fair and have light colored eyes, your risk of getting skin cancer goes up. Melanin plays a role in skin tone. People with darker tones have larger particles of melanin and a higher number of particles. They also have more of a particular type of melanin known as eumelanin. People with lighter tones have a type of melanin known as pheomelanin. If you are a lighter color, you will burn much more easily, damaging more cells on the surface of the skin. Individuals who are darker are less susceptible to skin cancer, but should still take every precaution like using sunscreen and avoiding prolonged exposure. It is important for all of us to be vigilant and stay on guard for any strange growths or marks on the skin. The earlier skin cancer is diagnosed, the better the prognosis generally is.

The Risk Increases with Age

If you aren’t diagnosed with cancer on the surface of your body in your younger years, don’t let your guard down! There is an even greater chance it could happen when you get older. At that point in your life, you will have had much more exposure to the sun’s rays than a young person. There is also a chance that a great deal of exposure in your younger years, including serious sunburns, could affect you many years down the line. We may think we’re invincible when we’re young, but that’s definitely not the case!

What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk of Getting this Type of Cancer?

The best thing you can do to avoid cancer like this is to wear a strong sunscreen any time you are going to be outdoors. You can even find it in makeup brands that includes some SPF protection, so there really is no excuse! Wear a hat to shield your face from the sun. Wear long sleeves and pants when possible too. If you are in a bathing suit or something that leaves your body uncovered, limit your time spent outdoors while also using a high SPF sunscreen product that’s waterproof. See a dermatologist regularly to have your body evaluated by a medical professional. Your dermatologist may make a map of your body that highlights any areas of concern for future follow-up visits when they check for skin cancer. Otherwise, pictures may be kept on file. Evaluate yourself often as well. If you see a spot that calls for concern, make an appointment with your doctor immediately.

If you’re in Trussville, Birmingham or surrounding areas then you can call Associated Dermatologists and schedule your appointment with us. At Associated Dermatologists, we’re here to bring you advanced and compassionate service in a variety of different ways that can bring you comfort, relief, and peace of mind. We’re constantly working to provide the highest standard of individualized care for one of the most important things – Our Skin!! We strive to always be improving the health of our community by delivering a broad range of services, and we stop at nothing to help you.

The post Why Do People Get Skin Cancer So Easily? appeared first on Associated Dermatologist.

Skin cancer is abnormal cell growth, usually found on skin that gets sunlight exposure. However, it is possible to get skin cancer on areas of the skin that do not get sunlight exposure. The three most  common types, which are melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma.

Click here to learn more about Mohs surgery for skin cancer.

Causes of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer symptoms can vary depending on what kind of skin cancer it is. For instance, a mole that changes in size, shape, or color could be a melanoma or  a red, firm nodule could be a squamous or basal cell carcinoma.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer symptoms can vary depending on what kind of skin cancer it is. For instance, a mole that changes in size, shape, or color could be a melanoma or  a red, firm nodule could be a squamous or basal cell carcinoma.

How Do You Check If You Have Skin Cancer?

A dermatologist may perform a full-body exam when checking for skin cancer. You want to tell your provider if you have moles that bleed, itch, have changed over time, or are new. A dermatologist will look over your entire body and examine each mole. When they look at every mole, they will consider  the diameter, color, border, and symmetry of the lesions. Your doctor may also look for actinic keratoses that occur from sun damage and can lead to cancer if untreated.

However, a visual exam is only the first part. If your doctor is concerned about a mole, they will possibly perform a biopsy. Then, your dermatologist will usually send the mole sample to a lab to check it for cancer cells. If the biopsy says that there are cancer cells, your doctor may recommend additional treatment.

How often should you get tested?

Not every medical professional may agree on how often you should get screened for skin cancer. Some providers believe that you should get checked yearly, especially if you have a higher risk for skin cancer because of the use of tanning beds, red/blonde hair, family medical history, etc. Some providers may state that you should only get checked if you have unusual moles.

If you notice a difference in your skin, it would be best to get checked right away. That way, you will learn how to treat any problem immediately, and if you live in or near the greater Birmingham, Alabama area, feel free to reach out to the team at Associated Dermatologists to book an appointment for skin cancer screening. Our office is conveniently located in Trussville just minutes from I-459 as you’ll see on the map below:

View Associated Dermatologists on Google Maps

The Team at Associated Dermatologists can be reached by phone

(205) 853-3960

Monday – Thursday from 8 AM to 4 PM.

We accept most insurance providers to include BlueCross, Viva Health, Medicare, UnitedHealthcare and TriCare. Reach out today to check availability for new patient appointments.

The post How does a dermatologist check for skin cancer? appeared first on Associated Dermatologist.

Cancer is a medical condition and arises when the body produces uncontrollable and dangerous cells. Skin cancer is diagnosed when the skin cells in the body get out of control. It can lead to the tumor outgrowing the original infected organ (skin in this case). As the cells proliferate, they tend to attach themselves to other areas to form new tumors. In the case of skin cancer, these masses generally take the form of moles or other kinds of skin abnormalities. Hence, diagnosing it at an early stage and treating it can prevent its spread to other parts of the body. Compared to other cancers, skin cancer is considered as one of the most commonly diagnosed. It is especially among people with light skin.

What are the different types of Skin Cancer?

There are three main types of Skin Cancer. Read about each below:

All about Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma: Considered as the most common type of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma grows slowly and appears in patients at a later stage, usually at age of 40 or over. This type of carcinoma has the tendency to only spread to the surrounding tissues. It is not widespread i.e. it normally does not spread to other distant parts of the body. However, it must be treated.

Basal cells: Basal cells are those situated at the base of a multilayered tissue and constitute the lower layer of the epidermis. They are normal skin cells that can later develop into cancerous cells, probably due to regular exposure to the sun.

Occurrence: Watch out for different areas of the body or the scalp which are directly exposed to the sun daily. Remember, you are more prone to developing basal cell cancer if you have light hair, skin and eye color.

Signs of Basal cell carcinoma: If you notice a lesion which is pearl-like or waxy in appearance that looks flat or slightly raised, then it could be a sign of basal cell carcinoma. The color of the lesion could also be brown, the color of your flesh, white or light pink. You might notice blood vessels in the lesion or the skin surrounding the infected area. Seek treatment immediately.

Treatment: Basal cell carcinoma is often removed by excision, where the tumor is cut out. Mohs surgery is a more exact method of excision that limits damage to surrounding tissue.

All about Squamous cell carcinoma 

Squamous cell carcinoma: Compared to basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma is more aggressive. It could spread faster to another part of the body. Typically it appears after the age of 50, but not always.

Squamous cells: Squamous cells are thin, flat cells that resemble the scales of a fish and are found in the tissue that forms the surface of the skin, the lining of hollow organs, respiratory and digestive tracts.

Occurrence: Squamous cell carcinoma can arise in the middle layer of the skin or even in a burned or injured area.

Signs of Squamous cell carcinoma: Watch out for rough or scaly red patches that might crust or bleed. Lumps with a lower area in the center and open sores that don’t heal are other signs.

Treatment: Surgery and then possibly radiation therapy. Systemic chemotherapy is another option for patients with squamous cell cancer.

All about Melanoma

Melanoma: Melanoma is not as common, as but more deadly than other skin cancers.

Melanoma cells: These cells produce the pigment melanin that colors the skin, hair and eyes.

Occurrence: Four types of melanoma exist. They vary per the location on the body where they are likely to occur, the age group, and the groups of people most likely affected.

Signs of Melanoma: Watch out for darkening of the skin or lumps.

Treatment: Depending on the type of melanoma, surgical removal of the lesion is normally required. More serious forms may require radiation treatments or chemotherapy.

Causes of Skin Cancer

There are innumerable causes of skin cancer, but prolonged sun exposure is the main reason for most of the skin cancer cases. If you’re worried about getting adequate vitamin D levels (and you should be), it’s best to get it through supplements and diet. Of course, consult your doctor before adding any new supplements or making diet changes.

The Sun: The sun is one of the major reasons we contract skin cancer. The ultraviolet radiation from the sun is likely to damage the skin cells and DNA over time. Hence, it is advisable that we do not spend too much time exposing our skin directly to sunlight.

Tanning Beds: Getting yourself a tan might be in vogue and stylish, but it could have an adverse effect on your body. Tanning aids including any artificial light sources like beds, lamps, bulbs, booths, etc might cause skin cancer. They emit UVA and UVB radiation, which is considered to be very harmful and even stronger than the rays received from actual sunlight.

Toxins & Chemicals: Toxins and chemicals are another reason some people develop skin cancer. Too much exposure to toxins in our environment can cause a reaction to those chemicals. Regular use of cosmetics over the years is also another factor. Many products contain chemicals that can cause allergies and skin irritation. Ladies, if you do wear makeup, be sure to remove it at night and choose the most natural products available.

Signs of Skin Cancer     

A sore or lesion: A sore that just won’t heal or lesions that look like a scar, but is not from a skin injury are some warning signs. Don’t wait too long to get it looked at! Seek immediate attention if you think you may have skin cancer. Visit your doctor about any suspicious skin lesion or sore. Another characteristic to watch out for is the border, color, size, and lack of symmetry of the lesion which sometimes indicates a cancerous growth. But don’t try to diagnose yourself. Please see a Board-Certified Dermatologist.

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