BUMRUNGRAD HEALTH BRIEFS #27: Protect your Skin - Expert Skin Cancer Prevention and Care at Bumrungrad
Protect your Skin - Expert Skin Cancer Prevention and Care at Bumrungrad
Skin cancer represents the uncontrolled growth of mutated skin cells, often triggered by damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from chronic sun exposure or tanning beds. Normal skin cells grow in a controlled and orderly way, however, when mutations occur in the DNA of skin cells, this orderly process is disrupted. Mutated cells begin to grow uncontrolled and can invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body (a process known as metastasis). Skin cancer mainly falls into three categories: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) arises from mutations in the basal cells, located in the lower part of the epidermis. These mutations cause the basal cells to multiply rapidly and continue growing when they would normally expire.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) originates from mutations in the squamous cells, which are found in all layers of the epidermis. Like BCC, these mutations lead to rapid and uncontrolled cell growth.
- Melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, begins in the melanocytes, which are melanin producing cells (the pigment that gives skin its color). Mutations in melanocytes lead to uncontrolled cell growth and can quickly spread to other parts of the body if not detected early.
Risk factors for skin cancer include fair skin, a history of sunburns, excessive sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, the presence of many moles or abnormal moles, and a weakened immune system. Prevention strategies are paramount and include avoiding sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, avoiding tanning beds, and conducting regular skin self-exams to detect new or changing moles or skin lesions.
Early detection and correct diagnosis of precancerous or cancerous growths significantly improve the prognosis. The experienced dermatologists at the Bumrungrad Skin (Dermatology) Clinic ensure comprehensive and precise screenings.
For those diagnosed, the Horizon Regional Cancer Center within Bumrungrad International Hospital offers an integrated approach to treatment, utilizing the latest advancements in cancer therapy.
You can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer and ensure a more favorable outcome if diagnosed by combining protective measures and early detection efforts.
Provided by Assoc.Prof.Dr. Nopadon Noppakun
.png)
.png)
