Skin Cancer - Nonmelanoma
Nonmelanoma skin cancer information such as how many people get nonmelanoma, what is nonmelanoma, risk factors of nonmelanoma and screening recommendations.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer and accounts for about half of all cancers. More than 1 million cases of highly curable basal cell or squamous cell cancers occur every year. Men get these cancers twice as often. It is hard to know the exact number of cases because they are not always reported. Only about 1,000-2,000 people die of nonmelanoma skin cancer per year. Those that do die are generally older and did not receive treatment soon enough or have suppressed immune systems. The skin is the largest organ in the body and covers/protects the organs inside the body. It also protects against germs and prevents fluid loss. The skin has three layers which include the epidermis, dermis and subcutis. Nonmelanoma is a cancer that usually begins in the basal and squamous cells in the epidermis (top layer). They are called nonmelanoma because they do not begin in the melanocyte cells which produce melanin.
Nonmelanoma Risk Factors
Certain risk factors increase a person?Ĵs chance of getting the disease. This does not mean the person will get the disease nor does it mean people without specific risk factors will not get the disease. It only means there is an increased chance.
Nonmelanoma Risk Factors:
- UV Light
- Fair Skin
- Male Gender
- Chemicals (arsenic, heavy metal in some insecticides, industrial tar, coal, paraffin and certain types of oil)
- Radiation Exposure
- Long-term or Severe Skin Problems (scars from severe burns, skin over sever bone infections, some skin diseases
- Psoriasis Treatment
- Xeroderma Pigmentosum (skin disease)
- Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome (rare inherited condition)
- Weakened Immune System
- Virus Infection (HPV)
- Smoking
- Personal History
- Family History
Nonmelanoma Screening Recommendations
Nonmelanoma can be found early and early detection leads to a high cure rate. It is recommended to check your own skin about once a month. You should know the pattern of moles, freckles and other marks on your skin so that you will notice any changes. Self-exam is best done in front of a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror for hard to see areas. A family member can check areas that are difficult to see. Any spots on the skin that change in size, shape or color should be seen by a doctor. You can also prevent skin cancer by avoiding intense sunlight too long. Practice sun safety by seeking shade, cover up with a shirt and hat, use sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher (remember to apply often and to apply 20-30 minutes before going out), wear sunglasses and do not use tanning beds or sun lamps.
Information gathered 10-21-04. Revised information: 7-24-08.