Have you heard the term “lifestyle disease”? Perhaps not. Skin cancer has been called a lifestyle disease – a disease that is associated with the lifestyle choices you make. You may not agree with that classification, but it’s important to remember that skin cancer can be deadly if not caught and treated early. If you spent a lot of time in the sun this summer, hopefully it was with a good sunscreen. Knowing and understanding how to avoid skin cancer is a first step in avoiding it.
One common type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCCs). Continue reading to learn more about BCCs:
- Eighty to eighty-five percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are BCCs. More than one out of every three new cancers is a skin cancer – and the vast majority are BCCs.
- BCCs are abnormal, uncontrolled growths that usually develop on the most exposed parts of your body, your hands, face, head and neck. However, they can occur on any part of your body, even those that are rarely exposed to sunlight. A general warning sign of skin cancer is a sore that won’t heal or that repeatedly scabs-over and bleeds, BCCs may also appear as:
- A waxy or white bump on your face, neck or ears. The bump may bleed and develop a crust.
- A flat, scaly, brown or flesh-colored patch on your back or chest.
- BCCs affect the lower layer of the epidermis and they rarely spread beyond their original site. They should not be taken lightly, however. They can be disfiguring and even deadly if not treated promptly.
A once a year, head-to-toe body check is the best way to screen for all forms of skin cancer, including BCCs. Using a sunscreen that is 30 SPF or greater is important, especially during the times of the day when the sun is at its hottest, about noon to 5 p.m.
Schedule a consultation
If you have a suspicious growth or a mole that seems to have changed, call to schedule an appointment, today. Fall is the perfect time to check for the possible side-effects of too much summer sun: (219) 464-7546. DeLaine Anti-Aging Cosmetic and Eye Surgery serves Valparaiso, IN and the surrounding areas!