Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., affecting millions worldwide.
This cancer comes in two main types: melanoma, which is less common but more deadly, and non-melanoma skin cancers, which include basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Dr. Collin Costello, a Mayo Clinic dermatologist, says these non- melanoma skin cancers are more prevalent - and with early diagnosis and treatment , the prognosis is good.
"Both basal and squamous cell carcinoma are often slow-growing skin cancers. They're both caused mostly by the sun," says Dr. Costello.
These cancers are predominantly found on sun-exposed areas, like the face, scalp, neck and ears. Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a change in the skin, such as a growth or a sore that won't heal, or a slightly transparent bump on the skin. "For basal cells, they're often a pink bump that slowly enlarges with time.
And sometimes they can bleed and be a little tender," Dr. Costello says. Squamous cell carcinoma may look like a skin-colored bump and can start anywhere on the skin.
It's typically found on sun-exposed areas in sunburn-prone people. However, in those with darker skin tones, it can appear on sun-protected areas, including the genitals or toes. "Sometimes they can get painful and ulcerated or be almost like a non-healing wound," he says.
Early diagnosis and treatment for these non-melanoma cancers are crucial. See a dermatologist if you notice spots changing or growing. "The majority of the time both ba.
