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Skin Cancer

Australians have the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. Two out of every three Australians who live to the age of 75 can expect to develop some type of skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation in sunlight causes skin cancer.

Cancer occurs when cells in the genetic code are damaged and are irreparable. These damaged cells will multiply and then form a tumour. Skin Cancer usually develops in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. Thus the tumour is visible and detectable.



The Skin

Skin AnatomyThe skin is the body’s largest organ. It has many important functions: protect against heat, sunlight, injury, and infection. It also helps regulate body temperature, stores water and fat, and produces vitamin D.

There are two main layers:

  • The Outer Epidermis

    The top of the epidermis is mostly made up of flat, scalelike cells called squamous cells. Underneath are basal cells that are round in shape. The bottom layer contains melanocytes.

  • The inner dermis

    The dermis contains blood vessels: lymph vessels, hair follicles, and glands. Some glands produce sweat to help regulate body temperature and others produce sebum to help keep the skin from drying out. These substances are brought to the surface of the skin through small openings called pores.

What Skin Cancer Looks Like

In most cases, you will be able to see a change in your skin. The change can occur in various ways, for example:

  • Translucent pearl-shaped growth
  • Moles
    • itchy moles;
    • bleeding moles;
    • moles that continue to grow in size;
    • moles that are asymmetrical in shape;
    • moles with colour variations; or
    • moles that are different than the others.
  • Brown or black streak underneath a nail
  • Sore that repeatedly heals and reopens
  • Smooth, waxy lesion
  • Cluster of slow growing, shiny or scaly lesions that are pink or red

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

This is the most common type of skin cancer, but the least dangerous as they grow slowly and rarely spread to other parts of the body. Basal cell carcinoma is usually found on the face and neck. They first begin as small round or flattened lumps which are usually red, pale or pearly in colour. There may be blood vessels visible on the surface. If untreated or not treated early, they will spread and leave bad scarring.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is more dangerous than BCC, but is less common. This type of skin cancer is red scaly areas that may bleed and become ulcerated. It is commonly found on areas of the body that are exposed to the sun; however, it can develop anywhere. Early treatment is required so that it does not spread.

Melanoma

This is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, but is the least common. Melanoma usually begins as a spot, freckle or mole on the skin that changes in colour, thickness or shape over months. It can be more than one colour - frequently brown, black, red or blue. Melanoma can develop from pre-existing moles putting people who already have them at greater risk. If melanoma is not detected early and removed, it can spread to internal organs and cause death.

References

National Occupational Health and Safety Commission

National Cancer Institute

Skin Cancer Net