Cancer is a disease that can prove fatal if not identified in time. Skin cancer is also a type of cancer. Although its cases are less in India than in other countries, yet due to lack of information, many people ignore its symptoms (skin cancer symptoms). This ignorance can often prove very costly because it is very important to detect it in the early stages. In this article, we will learn in detail about the causes, symptoms and preventive measures of skin cancer.

What is skin cancer?

There are very small cells in our body. These cells make up our skin. When something goes wrong with these cells, they start growing abnormally. This is what we call skin cancer.

Why does skin cancer occur?

There are some rays in the sun that can harm our skin . These rays cause some changes in the cells of our skin, which can cause cancer.

Where does skin cancer occur?

You may think that skin cancer only occurs in places that are directly exposed to sunlight, such as the face or hands. But that's not true. Skin cancer can also occur on parts of the body that are covered by clothing, such as the back or stomach.

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

• Persistent scaling: Repeated scabs forming and peeling in the same area.
• Burning and itching: Persistent burning or itching of the skin that does not go away.
• New spots or rashes: New colored spots, moles, or rashes suddenly appear on the skin.
• Abnormal lesions: Any lesion that does not heal for a long time, or comes back repeatedly.
• Changes in a mole: A change in the size, color, or shape of an existing mole.
• Changes around the ears, neck or private parts: Red rashes, spots or thick patches may appear in these areas.

Why does skin cancer occur?

• Skin color: People with fair skin are more susceptible to skin cancer due to a lack of melanin, which protects the skin from the sun's harmful rays.
• Sun rays: Prolonged exposure to sun rays causes skin irritation and damage, increasing the risk of cancer.
• Sunburn: Previous sunburns can also increase the risk of skin cancer.
• Immune system: People with a weakened immune system are more likely to develop skin cancer.
• Family history: If someone in the family has had skin cancer , then the person's risk of getting this disease also increases.

How to prevent skin cancer?

• Use sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before going out in the sun.
• Sun protection: Avoid being in direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Loose clothing: Wear loose, light-colored clothes when in the sun.
• Hydration: Drink enough water.
• Healthy diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and other nutrients.
• Regular checkups: Check your skin regularly for any changes and consult a dermatologist in case of any concerns.