Learning to Spot Suspicious Skin Conditions in the Prevention of Cancer by Valerie Harker

Skin cancer is the most common cancer that we deal with today and has increased 2000% since 1930. There are a lot of questions related to its causes and this frightening increase. The eroding ozone layer and our love of the outdoors for work and play, are certainly contributing to the condition. However, the fact remains that this killer disease is taking more victims all the time. It is essential for all of us to begin to think clearly about the possible reasons for the disease and to become familiar with the ways to prevent it.

What is skin cancer?

There are basically 3 types of skin cancer; basal cell cancer or carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common forms of skin cancer the least dangerous, the least likely to spread and the most highly treatable in the case of early detection. Malignant melanoma is the more serious skin cancer but is also highly treatable in the early phases.

Basal cell carcinoma

This disease is most prevalent in blond, fair-skinned people. It can be identified as an ulcerlike growth that spreads very slowly and destroys tissue as it moves. A large pearly looking lump, is normally the first sign of this cancer. It can be found most often on the face by the nose, neck or the ears. Six weeks after it’s initial presentation the lump will become ulcerated. The lump will display a raw, moist center with a hard border that may bleed. Eventually a scab will form over the ulcer and then come off. But the ulcer never fully heals and scab formation continues. Some basal cell carcinomas can be found on the back or on the chest. These are flat in appearance. Basal cell carcinoma is generally curable, it’s slow development facilitating treatment. If they do go untreated however, they can significantly damage the layers of skin and bone beneath them.

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BIO:

Valerie Harker graduated from the University of Alberta with a BED. Melanoma is a skin disease that has run in Valerie’s family and has opened her eyes to the need for education and preventive treatment in skin care. For more information you can visit her site at: http://www.dna-repair-solutions.com

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