Overview
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the skin. The main groups include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Some forms are more likely to spread than others, which is why early detection matters.
Key Symptoms
Warning signs can include a new mole or growth, a sore that does not heal, a scaly or crusted patch, or a spot that bleeds, itches, or changes over time. Melanoma may follow the ABCDE warning signs: asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter that is growing, and evolving change. Skin cancer can appear anywhere on the body, including places that get little sun.
Causes and Risk Factors
A major cause is damage from UV radiation, especially from repeated sun exposure or indoor tanning. Risk can also be higher with fair skin, a history of sunburns, older age, many or unusual moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer, or a weakened immune system. However, people with darker skin can also develop skin cancer, sometimes in less expected areas such as the palms, soles, or under the nails.
Who Is Affected
Skin cancer affects people in many countries and all skin tones. People who spend a lot of time outdoors, use tanning devices, or live in areas with strong sunlight may have higher exposure to UV radiation. It can occur at any age, although some types are more common in older adults.
Prevention
Lowering UV exposure can reduce risk. Use shade, protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and broad-spectrum sunscreen, and avoid tanning beds. Try to check your skin regularly so you can notice new or changing spots and have them assessed.
Diagnosis and Tests
A healthcare professional may examine your skin closely and ask about changes you have noticed. If a spot looks suspicious, they may use a dermatoscope and may take a small sample of tissue, called a biopsy, to check for cancer cells. If cancer is confirmed, more tests may be needed to learn the type and extent.
Treatment Categories
Treatment depends on the type of skin cancer, its size, where it is located, and whether it has spread. Common categories include surgery, local treatments that destroy abnormal cells, radiation therapy, and medicines such as immunotherapy or targeted therapy for some advanced cancers. Your care team can explain the goals, benefits, and possible side effects of each option.
When to Seek Medical Care
Make a medical appointment if you notice a new skin spot, a mole that changes, a sore that does not heal, or any patch that bleeds, hurts, or keeps returning. Seek care sooner if a lesion is growing quickly or looks very different from your other spots. Do not wait for pain, because skin cancer may not hurt at first.
Questions to Ask a Healthcare Professional
You may want to ask what kind of skin change this is, whether a biopsy is needed, and what signs should prompt urgent follow-up. If skin cancer is diagnosed, ask about the type, stage, treatment choices, possible side effects, and how often your skin should be checked in the future. It can also help to ask how to protect your skin and what changes to watch for at home.