What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma is a common form of skin cancer that affects millions of people worldwide. It usually develops on the face, neck, and other areas of the body that are regularly exposed to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Basal cell carcinoma occurs when the basal cells in the skin's outermost layer (epidermis) grow uncontrollably and form a cancerous tumor.
What are the symptoms of basal cell carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a small, shiny, or pearly bump on the skin that may be pink, red, or white. As the cancer grows, it may develop into an open sore that does not heal, a reddish patch, or a waxy scar-like lesion. Some people may also experience itching or bleeding in the affected area.
How is basal cell carcinoma treated?
There are several treatment options available for basal cell carcinoma, depending on the size, location, and severity of the cancer. The most common treatment options include:
- Surgery - most effective way to remove the cancerous cells, and it is often used for larger or aggressive tumors
- Radiation therapy - typically used for tumors that are difficult to remove surgically
- Topical creams - used for small or early-stage cancers
- Cryotherapy - involves freezing the cancerous cells with liquid nitrogen, and it is typically used for superficial cancers
What are the risk factors of basal cell carcinoma?
The most significant risk factor for basal cell carcinoma is prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. However other risk factors may include:
- People with fair skin, light-colored hair, and blue, green, or gray eyes
- Family history of skin cancer
- Weakened immune system
- Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic.
How to prevent basal cell carcinoma
The best way to prevent basal cell carcinoma is to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV radiation. This includes:
- Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (the sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 2pm)
- Using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 30
- Avoiding tanning beds.
You should also perform regular self-examinations of your skin to look for any changes or abnormalities and visit a dermatologist for a skin cancer screening at least once a year.