Understanding Skin Cancer
People refer to cancer as "The Big C". While it may seem as though all forms of the disease fall under one main categorization, there are actually more than 100 ailments that may be considered to be "cancer". Every type is different, but all are related to diseased cells in the body.
Those cells that are healthy and comprise the body's tissue grow before dividing and replacing themselves. This is how the body grows, maintains its health and in good repair. However some of these cells can lose their ability to perform these tasks, limiting their growth and progress. They may divide themselves too rapidly or grow without organization. Some times too much tissue can be produced, resulting in tumors being produced. Tumors may be benign or malignant.
Benign tumors do not lead to cancer. They do not extend to the rest of the body and are not life threatening. These type of tumors are usually removed via surgery and usually do not return. They are often more of a nuisance than a threat.
Malignant tumors are those that will lead to cancer. These tumors invade and destroy the neighboring healthy tissues and organs, causing illness in the body. Malignant tumors can spread or "metastasize" to other organs and cause new tumors to grow throughout the body.
Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma are the two main kinds of skin cancer. Carcinoma is the term used to describe a cancer that begins in cells that cover or surround an organ.
In the United States, basal cell carcinoma accounts for more than 90 percent of all skin cancers. Basal cell carcinoma grows slowly, and it rarely spreads to other areas. Regardless, it's important that all types of skin cancer are found early and promptly treated, preventing them from invading and destroying nearby tissues.
Nonmelanoma skin cancers are squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. Melanoma skin cancer begins in the melanocytes.
Skin cancer is presently the most common type of cancer in the United States. It's been estimated that between 40 and 50 percent of Americans who live to be 65 years and older will develop skin cancer at least once. However, it must be noted that any age and nationality can develop skin cancer. Those who are fair skin and freckled with red or blond hair and blue or light colored eyes are the sorts of people who are at most risk of developing the disease.
The sun's UV (ultraviolet) radiation is the most common cause of skin cancer. The sun creates two types of ultraviolet radiation: UVA and UVB. Tanning booths and sun beds create artificial UV radiation, and will also cause skin cancer.
People living in certain areas are more likely to develop skin cancer. Those who live in areas where they are exposed to high levels of UV radiation and are more likely to develop the disease. The Texas sun, for example, is especially strong. High rates of skin cancer are also found in South Africa and Australia where people are exposed to excessive amounts of the sun's radiation.
Keefe Figgatt enjoys writing for several great web sites, on health articles and alternative health themes.
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