Skin cancer is a common yet preventable disease that presents a significant threat to many Americans. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, making it the most widespread type of cancer. While most cases can be treated successfully, it remains one of the deadliest cancers. In the U.S., over 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer each day, and two lives are lost to the disease every hour.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently diagnosed type of skin cancer, with around 3.6 million cases reported annually in the U.S. Contrary to popular belief, BCC does not exclusively impact older adults; individuals in their 20s and 30s are increasingly being diagnosed as well. On a positive note, BCC is highly treatable and curable, especially when detected early. Dr. Jennifer Gordon, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas, emphasizes that BCC is the easiest form of skin cancer to treat and cure. If detected promptly, surgery and regular monitoring can effectively eliminate the cancer.
To prevent and detect BCC, it’s vital to visit a dermatologist at least once a year. If any unusual spots appear, seeking immediate medical attention is essential. Dr. Gordon warns that leaving a spot untreated can lead to larger growths and more noticeable scars. By educating themselves about the signs of basal cell carcinoma and pursuing timely medical care, individuals can significantly lower their chances of developing this prevalent form of skin cancer. As always, it’s important to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized medical guidance.
Would you like to learn more about how to prevent basal cell carcinoma? Check out this article today! https://www.pennmedicine.org/cancer/types-of-cancer/basal-cell-carcinoma/basal-cell-carcinoma-risks-and-prevention
1) Basal Cell Carcinoma: Important Information You Should Know
Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that is very common in the United States. It is slow-growing and usually curable, but in rare cases, it can be aggressive and require more invasive procedures. According to medical experts, basal cell carcinoma is more common than breast, colon, and prostate cancer combined.
Although it is not as lethal as other forms of cancer, it can still be dangerous if left untreated. It is often located in areas of the skin that have been exposed to intense sun exposure for extended periods without protection. It is important to see a dermatologist regularly and to seek medical attention if you notice any suspicious spots on your skin.
2) Understanding the High Prevalence of Basal Cell Carcinoma
According to several dermatologists, chronic sun exposure and ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun are the leading causes of basal cell carcinoma (BCC). People who live in warm climates and spend a significant amount of time in the sun without proper sun protection are at a higher risk of developing this type of skin cancer.
The baby-boomer generation, which tanned with baby oil and iodine, is now facing an epidemic of skin cancer as they reach an age where cancer risk increases. However, other factors such as genetics and other potential carcinogens may also contribute to BCC formation. White patients are most susceptible to BCC due to their susceptibility to sunburn and sun damage. UV radiation can induce mutations in the skin genes, leading to the formation of basal cell cancer.
3) Factors That Increase Your Risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Dr. Margolin, Dr. Toy, and Dr. Gordon all agree that sun exposure is the biggest risk factor for basal cell carcinoma. Other risk factors include fair skin that doesn’t tan well and certain genetic syndromes. According to Dr. Toy, the risk is higher in older individuals due to cumulative, lifetime exposure to the sun, but it can also affect teenagers and twenty-year-olds. Dr. Gordon emphasizes the importance of avoiding sunburns and tanning beds, as well as being mindful of certain professions, hobbies, and locales that may increase the risk over time.
4) Recognizing Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Recognizing the signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Dr. Margolin states that BCC usually appears as a medium-sized spot, ranging from a quarter to half an inch, with color similar to or slightly darker than the surrounding skin. The edges may appear slightly rolled up.
Dr. Toy adds that the skin cancer starts as a non-healing spot, usually on the face or any sun-exposed area, and gradually worsens over time. An ulcer may form, and the spot can begin to bleed, which is a telltale sign that something is wrong. Skin cancers never get better on their own, so if a spot has not healed in a month, it’s best to see a dermatologist.
Dr. Gordon advises that BCC can appear as a small, pearly, skin-colored bump that bleeds easily and slowly grows over time, causing an ulcer or chronic wound. Sometimes it can also present as a small pink, scaly patch. Since BCC can be present anywhere, it’s essential to have a board-certified dermatologist examine any suspicious spot.
Dr. Lal warns that BCC can look like a pimple or pearly bump that doesn’t heal, is friable, and bleeds easily with trauma. It can also resemble an ulcer.
5) Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Taking maximal sun-protective measures can help prevent basal cell carcinoma and other types of skin malignancy. “Whether dietary measures like enhanced vitamin D intake can prevent any of these diseases remains controversial, and it should not be counted on to confer protection,” warns Dr. Margolin.
According to Dr. Toy, the best way to prevent basal cell carcinoma is to protect yourself from the sun. Using sunblock, wearing sun-protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours can mitigate the risk. Additionally, monthly self-examinations at home and annual check-ups with a dermatologist can lead to early detection, which is crucial for optimal treatment.
Dr. Gordon recommends wearing daily SPF, seeking shade, wearing hats and sun-protective clothing, limiting time spent outside during peak UV radiation, and scheduling yearly screenings with a dermatologist.
Dr. Lal emphasizes the importance of wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 and broad-spectrum coverage, and reapplying it every two hours when in the sun. By following these tips, you can help lower the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma.
6) Available Treatments for Basal Cell Carcinoma
According to Dr. Margolin, not all BCCs grow aggressively, and some may never bother the person. However, some BCCs can grow more aggressively, requiring surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy to control.
Dr. Toy explains that most basal cell carcinomas can be cured with a surgical procedure under local anesthesia. Chemotherapy and radiation are rarely needed and only used in the most unusual of cases. In very early basal cell carcinoma, a topical form of chemotherapy called fluorouracil 5% cream can be used to avoid surgery. However, the vast majority of basal cell carcinomas are treated surgically by excising the lesion with a scalpel and sewing the skin back together or by scraping and burning the tumor using a specialized procedure called Mohs surgery.
If left untreated, Dr. Gordon says that BCCs will grow and cause local destruction to the skin. Although it rarely happens, BCCs can metastasize and cause internal cancer. Dr. Lal adds that BCC is notorious for forming large, non-healing wounds that, if untreated, can destroy local tissue.