Today, World Skin Cancer Day is observed around the world, marking the most common type of cancer. According to data from the Spanish Cancer Association (AECC), a third of all cancer diagnoses worldwide are for skin cancer. This type of cancer is caused by the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of skin cells that have been damaged by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or sunbeds. This is why it tends to occur more frequently on skin exposed to the sun.
The AECC estimates that around 3 million cases of skin cancer (excluding melanoma) are diagnosed worldwide each year; of these, more than 20,000 are in Spain. In addition to these cases, there are 132,000 people with melanoma. It is no surprise, then, that an estimated one person dies from skin cancer every 9 minutes worldwide.
The 3 most common types of skin cancer
There are 3 main types of skin cancer. The most common is basal cell carcinoma.
- This cancer usually appears on areas of the body exposed to the sun, particularly the face, ears, scalp, shoulders and back. It is a cancer that arises from the growth of basal cells located in the deepest layer of the epidermis. Basal cell carcinoma does not metastasise, but it can be locally invasive due to its slow but progressive growth.
- Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, and accounts for around 20-25% of malignant skin tumours. It is caused by the abnormal growth of squamous cells, known as keratinocytes, which make up the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis). It can be recognised by its resemblance to a scabbed wound with raised edges that bleeds easily. This cancer can appear anywhere on the body, although it usually occurs in areas most exposed to UV light. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, it is capable of metastasising, although this usually occurs in very advanced cases.
- Melanoma is the least common form of skin cancer, but the most aggressive, as it can invade the surrounding healthy tissue and spread to other parts of the body. Although most melanomas originate in the skin, they can also appear in other parts of the body (the mucous membranes of the mouth, the rectum or the eyes).
Risk factors and prevention
Although certain risk factors for skin cancer such as age, race or family history cannot be controlled, there are measures that can reduce the risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, two key areas of prevention should be considered, as outlined below:
1. Limiting exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. While it might sound obvious, the truth is that the most effective way to reduce the risk of melanoma is to protect yourself from exposure to UV rays. To do this, we must take steps to protect ourselves from the sun when outdoors. Simple steps such as seeking shade, putting on a T-shirt when in the sun, wearing a hat or applying sunscreen – especially on children. In this regard, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using sun creams with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15, which should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure. Finally, sunbeds also emit UV rays and can thus cause long-term damage to the skin and contribute to the development of skin cancer.
2. Pay particular attention to abnormal moles. It is advisable to check your skin regularly for any new moles or changes in existing ones, such as an increase in size or skin lesions that do not heal properly. If you notice any abnormalities, see your doctor for an examination as early detection is crucial in these cases. Your doctor may recommend the routine removal of moles as a way of preventing melanoma.
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