Information On Skin Cancer Causes

Just about a third of all new cases of cancer are skin cancer, making this by far the most common form in the United States. It is lucky that they are not often deadly, but can be unsightly if nit dealt with early. It is possible for them to proliferate (metastasize), in which case they become difficult to treat. Once this has happened they are also more likely to result in death.

The best possible advice is to learn to recognize the waning signs of cancer. Moles, freckles and warts may sometimes be confused with some forms of cancer, but it is better to refer a suspicious growth immediately. Actinic keratosis is a pre-cancerous warning sign which acts an immediate alert Remember, the earlier such a cancer is detected, the more likely any treatment is to be successful.

Melanoma is the form most feared as it is the only one of the cancers of the skin which is frequently fatal. They often resemble moles and may develop from moles, so can be very insidious and may often be ignored through familiarity. A change in any mole should cause an immediate state of alert and requires investigation. This is the most dangerous of the different types and should be treated with extreme care.

Squamous and basal cell carcinomas are the most frequent, and squamous cell is approximately a quarter as common as basal cell carcinoma. They are both quite easy to treat if caught early enough, and rarely metastasize. Should they spread, they become difficult to treat and in this stage may prove fatal, highlighting the need for early treatment.

A huge risk factor is indoor tanning. Sunbeds may improve your appearance, but they dramatically increase the risks of getting one of these cancers. Even very limited use of these cosmetic aids can be dangerous. It is better not to tale a risk with this, as the rewards are not worth it.

Ethnicity is also important. Here it should be noted hat melanoma is less frequent in Latinos, Asian-Americans and African-Americans, but is more likely to be fatal if it does occur. Make yourself aware of your risk factors and look out for them.

There are freely downloadable interactive educational programs available on the Web. This software will help you learn the warning signs and predisposing ethnic factors so you can protect both your family and yourself. You need to be on your guard for any warnings. While It takes testing by an expert to be absolutely sure, this will not happen without you first noticing a problem.