Understanding Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Types and Symptoms

As part of our #ACancerAWeek campaign, we are shedding light on Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC) this week —the most common type of skin cancer affecting millions globally each year. NMSC includes two primary types: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). Early detection and awareness of symptoms are crucial for effective treatment.

Types of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

• What It Is: The most common type of skin cancer that originates in the basal cells.
• How It Looks: Pearly or waxy bumps, flat flesh-colored spots, or scar-like lesions.
• Risk Factors: Long-term exposure to UV rays, fair skin, and tanning history.
• Behavior: Grows slowly, rarely spreads, but can cause significant local damage if untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

• What It Is: A type of skin cancer that develops in the outer layer of the skin.
• How It Looks: Red, scaly patches, open sores, or thickened, wart-like areas.
• Risk Factors: Prolonged sun exposure, smoking, and exposure to harmful chemicals.
• Behavior: Faster-growing than BCC with a higher potential to spread to other parts of the body.

Recognizing Symptoms

Identifying the signs of NMSC early increases the likelihood of successful treatment. Look out for:

• Unusual Growths: Persistent spots or lumps that don’t heal.
• Mole Changes: Alterations in the size, shape, or color of existing moles or spots.
• Scaly Patches: Areas that are red, itchy, crusty, or bleed.
• Recurrent Sores: Sores that heal and then reappear.

Specific Signs by Type

• Basal Cell Carcinoma:Small, pearl-like bumps with visible blood vessels.Flat, red spots that bleed easily.Smooth bumps resembling moles or scar-like patches.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma:Firm, tender lumps.Scaly patches that expand over time.Open sores or thickened skin, particularly near the lips.

Conclusion

Awareness is the first step toward prevention and treatment. Regular self-examinations and annual dermatologist visits are vital to catching NMSC early. As part of our #ACancerAWeek series, we encourage everyone to stay informed and proactive about skin health.

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll discuss prevention strategies and treatment options for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer. Let’s work together to spread awareness and combat cancer.

#CancerAwareness #SkinCancer #NonMelanomaSkinCancer #ACancerAWeek #HealthTips #SwalifeBiotech

Citations:

[1] https://www.moffitt.org/cancers/skin-cancer-nonmelanoma/signs-symptoms/

[2] https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/skin-non-melanoma/what-is-non-melanoma-skin-cancer/types-of-non-melanoma

[3] https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/skin-cancer-non-melanoma/

[4] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/skin-cancer-and-melanomas

[5] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/non-melanoma-skin-cancer/symptoms/

[6] https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/non-melanoma-skin-cancer

[7] https://www.moffitt.org/cancers/skin-cancer-nonmelanoma/faqs/five-less-common-skin-cancer-symptoms/

[8] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/about/what-is-basal-and-squamous-cell.html

[9] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20377605

[10] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3339125/