Q. What are the most common types of skin cancer?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
The three most common types of skin cancer are:
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically develops in areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and hands. BCC is usually slow-growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. It often appears as a shiny, translucent bump or a pinkish patch on the skin.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. Like basal cell carcinoma, it is often linked to sun exposure. SCC can be more aggressive than BCC and has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated. It usually appears as a scaly, red, or crusty lesion on the skin.
3. Melanoma: Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new and unusual mole on the skin. Melanoma has the potential to metastasize (spread to other parts of the body), making early detection and treatment crucial. The ABCDE rule is often used to identify potential melanomas, with features to watch for, including Asymmetry, irregular Borders, varied Color, a Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolution (changes in size, shape, or color).
It's important to regularly check your skin for any changes or abnormalities and to seek medical attention if you notice any suspicious growths or lesions. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the prognosis for all types of skin cancer. Additionally, practicing sun safety, such as wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure, can help reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.