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Each year, more than two million people are diagnosed with skin cancer, more than the amount of all other cancer diagnoses combined. And while our awareness and knowledge about skin cancer continues to grow, so does the number of diagnosed cases. However, skin cancer is both preventable and treatable.
Like other forms of cancer, skin cancer means that a cell has mutated, or become abnormal. The mutated cells continue to replicate, causing cancerous cysts, tumors, masses, or deformities on the skin. Sometimes spots or masses may be present but they aren’t cancerous, referred to as benign. If they are cancerous, they are called malignant.
There are different types of skin cancer, depending on how the cells mutate. The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. In general, melanoma is a high-risk cancer, while basal and squamous cell carcinomas are less serious.
You can take an active role in protecting your skin and preventing skin cancer. First, when possible try to stay in the shade during peak sun hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. When you are in the sun, reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day, especially if you will be in water where it can wash off.
In some cases, you may want to wear clothing that covers your arms and legs, and protective accessories like hats and sunglasses to block UVA and UVB rays. Also, avoid indoor tanning as it can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.