Spotting signs of skin cancer
Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, but according to research done by Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) in June 2013, it is also the easiest to cure, if diagnosed and treated early.
However, the research conducted by Researched and Prepared by Prof Michael C Herbst states that when allowed to progress, skin cancer can result in disfigurement and even death.
According to Cansa East Rand Relay for Life coordinator, Rina Burke, research has shown that it is a popular misconception that only fair-skinned people need to be concerned about overexposure to the sun.
“This is because darker skin has more protective melanin pigment, and the incidence of skin cancer is lower in dark-skinned people.
“Nevertheless, skin cancers do occur with this group, and unfortunately they are often detected at a later, more dangerous stage,” she says.
There are three main types of skin cancer, namely basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma and because each one has many different appearances, it is important to know the early warning signs.
Spot the signs
If you spot the following warning signs it is best to go see a doctor:
* A skin growth that increases in size and appears pearly, translucent, tan, brown, black or multicolored
* A mole, birthmark, beauty mark, or any brown spot that:
* changes color
* increases in size or thickness
* changes in texture
* is irregular in outline
* is bigger than 6mm or 1/4″, the size of a pencil eraser
* appears after age 21
* A spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab, erode, or bleed
* An open sore that does not heal within three weeks
Burke advises that these signs not be overlooked, and do not delay to immediately see a physician and preferably one who specialises in diseases of the skin.
“Its best to react immediately and see a doctor if you note any change in an existing mole, freckle, or spot and perhaps even if you find a new spot with any of the warning signs of skin cancer,” says Burke.
