Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, impacting millions of people worldwide each year. While the statistics can seem daunting, it is both preventable, and curable if caught early enough. Prioritizing timely checks and treatments are crucial in safeguarding your skin’s health.
At Dr. Ben Wiese’s Clinic, we are dedicated to empowering our community with the knowledge and resources needed in the fight against this pervasive condition. In this blog, we’ll explore the various types, share tips on how to recognize early signs, as well as some of the more common risk factors.
How Skin Cancer Starts
The skin is your body’s largest organ. Besides helping regulate the body’s temperature, it protects the body against heat, light, injury, and infection. So it’s important to take care of it! Continuous exposure to the sun can be dangerous for your skin and may result in skin cancer, or the growth of abnormal skin cells.
Skin cancer generally originates when the DNA in skin cells is damaged, most often due to harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. This damage can lead to mutations, causing skin cells to grow uncontrollably and form malignant tumors.
While UV exposure is a primary culprit, other factors like genetics, a weakened immune system, and exposure to certain chemicals can also contribute to the development of skin cancer. These initial cellular changes, often invisible to the naked eye, lay the groundwork for the various forms of the disease. If they aren’t treated, they can cause serious problems for you and your body.
The Most Common Skin Cancer Types
Skin cancer isn’t a singular entity. It encompasses several distinct types, each with its own characteristics and behaviors.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Accounting for approximately 8 out of 10 skin cancer diagnoses, basal cell carcinoma is the most frequently occurring type. It typically arises in areas of the skin exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, head, and hands. It originates in the basal cells, which are responsible for producing new skin cells.
Appearance: Basal Cell Carcinoma often presents as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat, flesh-coloured or brown scar-like lesion, or a bleeding, scabbing sore that heals and then returns. It can also appear as a red patch that may itch or crust.
Growth: It tends to grow slowly and rarely spreads, or metastasizes, to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated, they can grow deep into the skin, causing significant local damage to tissue, bone, and cartilage.
Risk Factors: Prolonged and intense sun exposure, especially during childhood, is the primary risk factor. Fair skin, a history of severe sunburns, and a weakened immune system also increase the risk.
Actinic Keratosis
Actinic keratosis is a very common, precancerous skin lesion caused by long-term exposure to UV radiation, primarily from the sun. It’s considered the earliest stage in the development of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.
Appearance: It typically appears as rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, hands, and forearms. They can range in colour from skin-toned to reddish-brown, and may feel like sandpaper.
Growth: AKs usually grow slowly over time. While most remain benign, there’s a small risk that an individual spot can progress to invasive squamous cell carcinoma, especially if left untreated.
Risk Factors: The primary risk factor is chronic UV radiation exposure, particularly in individuals with fair skin, light eyes, and a history of sunburns. Older age, a weakened immune system, and a history of previous AKs also increase the risk.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, making up about 2 out of 10 cases. It develops in the squamous cells, which are flat cells found in the outer layers of the skin. Like Basal Cell Carcinoma, it often appears on sun-exposed areas but can also develop in other parts of the body, including mucous membranes and genitalia.
Appearance: It can manifest as a firm, red nodule; a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface; or a sore that doesn’t heal. It may also resemble a wart or a persistent sore.
Growth: Squamous Cell Carcinomas can be more aggressive than Basal Cell Carcinoma, with a higher potential to spread to lymph nodes and distant organs if not treated early.
Risk Factors: Chronic sun exposure is a major contributor. Other risk factors include fair skin, a history of actinic keratoses (precancerous skin lesions), weakened immune systems, and exposure to certain chemicals or radiation.
Melanoma: The Most Serious Form
While less common than basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer due to its high potential for metastasis if not detected and treated early. Melanoma develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. It can arise from an existing mole or appear as a new, dark spot on the skin.
Appearance: melanoma often follows the “ABCDEG” rule for self-checks:
A – Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.
B – Border Irregularity: The edges of the mole are ragged, notched, or blurred.
C – Colour Variation: The mole has uneven colour, with shades of black, brown, and tan, or patches of red, white, or blue.
D – Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can sometimes be smaller.
E – Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, colour, or elevation, or new symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or crusting appear.
G – Growth: Melanoma can grow rapidly and spread to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes, lungs, liver, and brain, making early detection critical for successful treatment.
Risk Factors: A history of severe, blistering sunburns, a large number of moles (especially atypical moles), a family history of melanoma, fair skin, and a weakened immune system are significant risk factors.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that originates in the Merkel cells, which are found in the top layer of the skin. It’s known for its rapid growth and high potential for spreading to other parts of the body.
Appearance: It often presents as a single, firm, shiny, flesh-coloured, red, or bluish-red nodule or tumor on sun-exposed areas of the head and neck, though it can appear anywhere on the body. It’s often painless and can be mistaken for a cyst or other benign lesion.
Growth: MCC grows very rapidly and can spread quickly to nearby lymph nodes and distant organs. Early detection and treatment are crucial due to its aggressive nature.
Risk Factors: Significant risk factors include excessive UV radiation exposure, a weakened immune system (e.g., organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS), and infection with the Merkel cell polyomavirus, which is found in most tumors. Older age is also a risk factor.
Who’s at Risk?
While anyone can develop skin cancer, some people face a much higher risk and should take extra care with sun protection. Those with fair skin, light-coloured eyes (blue, green, or grey), and blond or red hair often have less melanin – a natural pigment that helps protect the skin from UV damage – making them more vulnerable when spending time outdoors.
A history of blistering sunburns, especially during childhood, increases risk significantly. So does frequent or intense sun exposure, whether occasional or long-term. Tanning bed use is another major factor; using a sunbed before age 35 can increase your risk of melanoma by up to 75%.
People who spend a lot of time outside for work or recreation should take steps to protect their skin year-round. Other risk factors include having many or atypical moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer, a weakened immune system (due to medication or conditions like HIV), and older age.
The Importance of Early-Stage Skin Cancer Detection
The key to successful skin cancer treatment lies in early detection. Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks are paramount in identifying suspicious lesions before they become more advanced. Be vigilant for any changes in your skin, paying close attention to new growths or changes in existing moles.
Here are some of the biggest reasons why early detection matters for skin cancer:
- Higher Cure Rates: For basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, early detection often leads to simple, highly effective treatments with cure rates exceeding 95%. If you can catch early melanoma the five-year survival rate is over 99%.
- Less Invasive Treatment: Early-stage skin cancers often require less extensive and less invasive treatment options, such as surgical excision, cryotherapy, or topical medications. This translates to less scarring, quicker recovery times, and fewer complications.
- Reduced Risk of Metastasis: The primary danger of skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is its ability to spread to other parts of the body. Early removal drastically reduces this risk, preventing the cancer from becoming life-threatening.
- Improved Quality of Life: Timely treatment can prevent disfigurement and functional impairment that can result from larger, more advanced tumors. It also alleviates the anxiety and stress associated with a growing, untreated cancer.
Skin Cancer Prevention
While cancers are the most common type of cancer, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself against getting them. Here are some tips that can be easily followed by people of all ages:
- Seek shade, especially during peak hours: Minimize your time in direct sunlight, particularly between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are most intense. Utilizing natural or artificial shade dramatically reduces your exposure.
- Wear protective clothing: Cover up with long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats that shield your face, neck, and ears. UV-blocking sunglasses are also essential for protecting your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
- Apply and reapply sunscreen diligently: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Apply it generously to all exposed skin 15-30 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
- Be mindful of reflective surfaces: Remember that surfaces like sand, water, and snow can reflect UV rays, intensifying your exposure even when in the shade. Take extra precautions in these environments.
- Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit concentrated UV radiation that significantly increases your risk of developing all forms of skin cancer, including the most dangerous type, melanoma.
- Get Regular Skin Checks: Advanced imaging mole map technology (such as our FotoFinder Automated Total Body Mapping system) can help detect new moles and monitor changes in existing ones. Combined with dermoscopy, this technology makes it easier to catch potential issues early, when treatment is most effective and the chances of a full recovery are highest.
While there’s no way to guarantee you won’t develop skin cancer, following these tips can significantly reduce your risk.
Protect Yourself Today to Keep Yourself Safer Tomorrow
Understanding skin cancer, recognizing its early signs, and prioritizing timely detection and treatment are crucial steps in protecting your skin and overall health. While skin cancer continues to be prevalent in Canada, understanding the risk factors and taking the correct precautions can reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. At Dr. Ben Wiese’s Clinic, we’re committed to providing comprehensive skin cancer care, from prevention and early detection to advanced treatment options. Don’t wait – schedule a skin check today and take proactive steps towards a healthier, cancer-free future!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of skin cancer?
The most common cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to uncontrolled growth.
Can skin cancer be cured?
When detected and treated early, most skin cancers, especially basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are highly curable. Even melanoma, the most serious type, has a high cure rate if caught in its early stages.
How often should I get a professional skin check?
It is generally recommended to have a professional skin check by a dermatologist or skin cancer physician at least once a year, especially if you have risk factors such as a history of sunburns, numerous moles, or a family history of skin cancer. They can advise on the appropriate frequency for your individual needs.
Are tanning beds really that dangerous?
Yes, tanning beds are extremely dangerous. They emit high levels of UV radiation, which significantly increases your risk of all types of skin cancer, including melanoma – even with limited use. In 2025, the World Health Organization declared skin diseases a global public health priority, urging stronger regulations on sunbed use due to the well-documented health risks.
What should I do if I find a suspicious mole or spot on my skin?
If you notice any new or changing moles, spots, or lesions on your skin that concern you, it is crucial to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist or skin cancer physician as soon as possible. Early evaluation is key to accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
Can people with darker skin tones get skin cancer?
Yes, people of all skin tones can get skin cancer. While individuals with fair skin are at higher risk, skin cancer in people with darker skin tones often goes undiagnosed until later stages, making it more dangerous. It’s important for everyone to practice sun safety and perform regular self-examinations.
Is there a genetic component to skin cancer?
While sun exposure is the primary cause, genetics can play a role, particularly in melanoma. If you have a family history of melanoma, you may have an increased risk and should be extra vigilant with sun protection and regular skin checks.
What is actinic keratosis?
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common precancerous skin lesion caused by chronic sun exposure. AKs appear as rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas. While not cancerous themselves, they have the potential to develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
Is basal cell carcinoma fatal?
If left untreated, basal cell carcinoma can grow larger and deeper, causing significant local damage to surrounding tissues, including bone and nerves. In extremely rare, advanced cases where it’s left untreated for a very long time, or in immunocompromised individuals, it could potentially become life-threatening due to extensive local destruction or very rare metastasis, but this is highly uncommon. Early detection and treatment almost always lead to a complete cure.
Can a dermatologist tell if a mole is cancerous just by looking at it?
A dermatologist or skin cancer physician can often suspect a mole is cancerous by visual inspection (dermoscopy), which involves using a specialized magnifying tool to examine the mole’s structure and pigment patterns. However, a definitive diagnosis of skin cancer always requires a biopsy. During a biopsy, a small sample of the suspicious mole or lesion is removed and sent to a lab for microscopic examination by a dermatopathologist. This is the only way to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the specific type of skin cancer.