Many people enjoy having fun in the sun, but it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with the American Academy of Dermatology estimating that one in five Americans will develop it in their lifetime.
Our specialists at Spartanburg-Greer ENT & Allergy can walk you through the next steps if you’re concerned about skin cancer and help you take steps to minimize your risk.
What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?
Skin cancer may appear as a bump, scab, mole or lesion. Basal cell carcinoma may appear as a bump, scar-like lesion or a reoccurring bleeding or scabbing sore. Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a red nodule or a lesion with a scaly surface, and melanoma may appear as a brown spot, abnormal mole or a painful lesion with unusual coloring.
Where Does Skin Cancer Develop?
Skin cancer typically develops in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, including the:
- Scalp
- Face
- Lips
- Ears
- Neck
- Chest
- Arms
- Hands
- Legs
How Is Skin Cancer Treated?
Your doctor will create a personalized treatment plan based on the size, type and location of the cancer. If it hasn’t spread, a biopsy that removes the entire growth may be all that is needed. Other cases may require chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of these procedures.
Whether treatment comes in the form of ongoing procedures or simply removing the growth, our team will support you through every step of the process.
How Can I Reduce My Risk of Skin Cancer?
The most effective way to prevent skin cancer is to limit exposure to the sun, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which is when ultraviolet light is at its peak.
Important steps to take when going out in the sun include:
- Using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
- Wearing hats, long-sleeved shirts and pants
What Should I Do If I’m Concerned About Skin Cancer?
You should visit a medical professional if you notice any changes to your skin, since early identification is key to improving treatment success rates. Our specialists at Spartanburg-Greer ENT & Allergy will provide a diagnosis and the treatment that will work best for your needs.
Call Spartanburg-Greer ENT & Allergy for more information or to schedule an appointment.