SKIN CANCER AND THE SOUTHWEST
Skin cancer is the most prevalent of all cancers with over one million Americans developing skin cancer this year. It has been in the media as of late with the news that the First Lady recently had a squamous cell carcinoma removed from her leg. Skin cancer is a very common occurrence here in the southwest and some statistics have indicated that the Tucson area has the second highest incidence of skin cancer in the world.
Basal cell carcinoma
Most common skin cancer
Appears as a pearly bump, nodule or red plaque
Grows slowly over months
Generally occurs on sun-exposed areas
They can occur in areas that are not frequently exposed to the sun
When untreated, will often bleed, crust over, heal, and then repeat the cycle.
Basal cell carcinomas rarely metastasize
They can cause significant local damage
Squamous cell carcinoma
Second most common type of skin cancer
Usually occurs on sun-exposed areas, including the ears, face (including the lips), neck and arms
Typically appear as red, scaly plaques that may bleed and never heal
Can metastasize to other areas of the body
It is important to have them treated early.
Melanoma
The most dangerous type of skin cancer
It is estimated that 8,000 Americans will die from it this year
Usually pigmented (dark in color)
Frequently have an irregular shape
Uneven borders
Variations in color.
May be larger than average nevi (moles)
They often change in shape and/or color
They can occasionally bleed, or be itchy or painful
May develop in a pre-existing nevus or start as a new, dark lesion.
Prevention is the best defense against skin cancer. While sun avoidance it the best prevention, it is hard to completely avoid the sun here in the southwest. Sun protection is our next level of defense. The cowboys had it right by wearing wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts made of dense fabric, and pants. That is not the usual attire in Tucson, especially during the summer, so high SPF broad spectrum sunscreen, hats that cover the ears, and clothing designed for sun protection are recommended daily.
Skin cancer is highly curable with early detection and treatment. We recommend that patients perform a self-assessment skin exam monthly and be seen by a dermatologist at least once a year for a complete skin exam. If you have a lesion you are concerned about, have it checked by a dermatologist as soon as possible.
By Dr. Colin R. Trout, M.D. Dermatologist. Tucson Arizona.