Squamous cell carcinoma is considered to be the second most common type of skin cancer after Basal cell carcinoma. It typically develops in the body parts that are most affected by the UV rays generated either by sun or tanning beds.
Some of the common places where you can see this cancer include arms, lips, neck, chest, head, ears, hands, and legs. The growth of this skin cancer may be quite slow, and it can spread to bones, tissues, lymph nodes, making it harder to treat. However, if the cancer is identified at an early stage, the treatment is a lot easier.
What Are The Symptoms and signs Of Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
While it generally develops in the sun-exposed region of the skin, it can be developed anywhere on the body. Some of the signs of this type of skin cancer include:
- A raised area of the sore area on an older ulcer or scar
- A flat sore that has a scaly crust
- A red firm nodule
- A rough patch or red sore inside the mouth
- A rough patch on the lip grows to be open sore
- A raised red patch or sore on the genitals.
If you experience any of the above symptoms on your skin, you should get a skin check Gold Coast.
What Are The Risk Factors Associated With Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
- Excessive exposure to the sun:When you are exposed to UV lights, it increases the risk of developing this skin cancer.
- Tanning beds: UV lights from tanning beds are also harmful to our skin and increase the chances of Squamous cell carcinoma.
- Fair skin: Although anyone can suffer from this ailment, people with fair skin tend to be more at risk. This is because of the lack of pigment or melaninthat impact your skin’s ability to protect from UV radiation.
- Sunburn history:If you tend to have blistering sunburns as a teenager or child, boost the risk of development of Squamous cell carcinoma as an adult.
- History of skin cancer: If you previously suffered from any type of skin cancer, especially Squamous cell carcinoma, you are at a higher risk of developing it again.
- Weak immune system:Individuals with a weakened immune system can boost the risks of developing skin cancer.
- Rare genetic disorder:Individuals with xeroderma pigmentosum are at greater risk of developing skin cancer. This is a rare disorder where people are extremely sensitive to light.
Do you know: Two in every three Australians are diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they are 70.
How Can You Prevent Squamous cell carcinoma?
To protect yourself from Squamous cell carcinoma:
- Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. When you go out, ensure to apply SPF-30 even when it is cloudy outside. You mustapply sunscreen every two hours.
- Cover your arms and legs with dark and tightly woven attire. You can also use a broad-brimmed hat to protect your face.
- Keep checking your skin on a regular basis, and if you see any chances then report the same to your doctor. When checking, look for existing moles, bumps, freckles, birthmarks, etc. Make sure you check your body thoroughly from head to toe.
Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that is primarily caused due to excessive exposure to UV rays. When it is identified in a timely manner, the disease may be treated easily. Make sure you check your skin regularly and if there is any issue, get in touch with the doctor immediately.