Basal cell skin cancer – The most common skin cancer

Basal cell skin cancer is the most common type of this disease that affects more than eight hundred thousand Americans every year. In fact one of the three new cases of skin disease are diagnosed as cancer and the majority of them are of the basal cell skin variety. Each year has seen a sharp increase in the number of people getting affected by this and generally older men working outdoors are affected.

Major causes that are responsible for the occurrence include – • Chronic exposure to sunlight is the most significant cause. • Contact with arsenic and exposure to radiation can be another cause. • Vaccinations and tattoos are also a cause for this deadly disease so one must be careful of what one does to the body. Thus these are the main causes and it is up to us to avoid obvious reasons for getting it. (Tattoos)

Who can be the victims of this disease? Generally those with a history to chronic exposure can get the disease. Also people with pale skin, blue hair and light hair are more prone to getting basal cell skin cancer. Dark skinned people are less likely to get it. Also people who spend a lot of time outdoors can be victims to this disease.

Warning signs: The following are 5 sure warnings to detecting this disease. Only trained physicians or dermatologists can decide for sure the presence of the disease. Following are the basic 5 signs to look out for –

1. A persistent sore that oozes pus and does not heal for a long time is a dangerous sign and can be an important factor. 2. A reddish patch or bump on the chest, hand, legs etc that itches or starches all the time and recurs from time to time. 3. A shiny bump that can be seen in people with black hair and that is most likely to be confused as a mole. 4. A Pink Growth with an elevated border and a crusted indentation in the center. As the growth slowly enlarges, tiny blood vessels may develop on the surface of the skin. 5. A waxy yellowish scar like area can indicate the presence of a tumor.

Thus it is very important that you have regular whole body skin examinations and keeps a follow up regularly. Preferably at least 3-4 times a year. And for people who have a basal cell skin cancer history running in their families, it is very important that they do not neglect these signs, as they are warnings of a very deadly disease.

Also read our article about Cancer Detection