Skin Cancer: Learn the Basics

Hi, I’m Natasha from LovelySkin.com. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States with more than 3.5 million cases being diagnosed annually.

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells and is the easiest form of cancer to treat and prevent. This concern occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells triggers mutations or genetic defects and causes skin cells to multiply, forming malignant tumors.

Prevention of skin cancer is simple. Make sure to always wear a sunscreen, keep your skin covered, stay in the shade and avoid sunburn and tanning beds. We recommend wearing a sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days and in the winter.

Another important prevention method is a monthly mole check and a yearly visit with your dermatologist. If any concerns are raised, you will be able to address the problem before it becomes dangerous.

Skin cancer treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer, its type, size, location and the general health of the patient.

The five standard treatment types include

• Mohs surgery to remove the tumor in several steps
• Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells or prevent further growth
• Chemotherapy to stop growth with drugs that kill the cancer cells or stop them from dividing
• Photodynamic therapy, which uses drugs and laser light to kill cancerous cells
• Biologic therapy, a treatment using the patient’s immune system to fight cancer

Make sure to check your moles at home each month and schedule an appointment with your physician each year. Visit LovelySkin.com/SkinCancer to learn more about this concern.

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