Glimpse of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancer primarily compromises of two types of cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Former is the most common type of skin cancer and it outnumbers the SCC almost by the ratio of 3:1. Skin cancer is the most common type of the cancer prevalent in USA. Studies have revealed that non melanoma skin cancer is on the rise in the U.S.

In 2006, an estimated 3.5 million people were diagnosed for non melanoma skin cancer. This is little astounding as the second most common cancer which is lung cancer does not constitute 10% of the people diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer. In USA almost $ 1 billion get spent for the treatment of skin cancer annually and the amount may rise if not controlled with utmost precautions. It is to be interpreted that most of the cases related to non melanoma skin cancer relates to sun exposure. It is less dangerous than melanoma skin cancer but still it can be serious sometimes if not tapped in initial stages in few cases.

Non-melanoma is still “under recognized” as the mortality rate is very minute in this type of cancer. Melanoma, lung cancer and breast cancer have more mortality rates compared to non melanoma so it always escapes from clutches of media. This often causes lack of attention making it negligent in terms of diagnosis. It may result in carelessness in treatment and diagnosis which may lead to cosmetic disfigurement.

No doubt sun is the ultimate source of energy but the same source becomes futile when our body get excess exposed to it. So when it comes to protecting from any kind of skin cancer, it is necessary to understand how to guard yourself from hazardous UV (ultra Violet) rays of the sun. These rays revolve around us even on hazy days, and can reverberate off surfaces like water, cement, sand and snow. It is suggested to use sun screen lotion with Sun Protective factor (SPF) of 15 or higher, try for both UVA and UVB protection. Wear protective clothes peculiarly loose, long sleeve shirt and pants made of light woolen fabric. Use umbrella, tree or other shelter to seek shade during the heat of the day. Don’t miss the sun glasses too.

As I have already mentioned millions of people suffer from non-melanoma skin cancer every year they have this common symptoms:

1.Reddish patches on the skin surface.
2.Rough skin patches.
3.A sore which hardly heals.
4.A mole which will have a tender texture and is bright, waxy in color.
5.A strange new growth in skin

To prevent facial deformity from non-melanoma skin cancer, it is required to consult with professional Mohs surgeon. They are trained personals for the removal of skin cancer and for the reconstruction of effected skin. Mohs treatment has proved very successful in treatment for skin cancer and has following advantages which make it unique and so effective while treating the patients. They are discussed below:

High Cure Rates: It delivers the highest cure rate of any skin cancer remedies available. This allows you not to go again and again to get your cancer treated.

Accurate Mapping of Tumor: If tumor is present in the pathology, the Mohs surgeon makes a precise map to nail down the accurate location of the tumor. This makes normal tissue to be spared, proving high cure with smaller scars.

Tissue Sparing Function: 100 percent of the tissue margin is examined with mohs. This means with it, you only need to take 1-2 mm of skin around the cancer. It results in smaller and less noticeable scars.

Instant Results: Mohs surgeon requires 30 minutes to an hour to know if the cancer has been removed from the skin is out or not. This prevents you from frequent visit to the doctor to cure your skin cancer.

Skin cancer should never be taken lightly. It is very common and highly treatable. Basal Cell Carcinoma has 99% cure rate with mohs surgery whereas primary squamous cell carcinoma have a cure rate of 95-98%. Non-melanoma skin cancer is easily treatable and does not require much of time to get cured but at the same time it should not be taken lightly as after all it is still a disease.

Jefferson is writing articles for Basal Cell Carcinoma, We specialize in medical science,Basal-Cell-Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma.