Understanding Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells, usually triggered by DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation due to excessive sun exposure. It is one of the most common forms of cancer globally — but also one of the most preventable and treatable when detected early.
At BIACH&RI, our expert oncology team is committed to spreading awareness, ensuring timely diagnosis, and providing advanced care for skin cancer patients.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are three main types of skin cancer:
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Most common and least aggressive type
- Appears as a pearly bump, flesh-colored patch, or sore that doesn’t heal
- Often develops on sun-exposed areas like the face and neck
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Second most common type
- May appear as a scaly red patch, open sore, or thickened skin
- More likely to spread than BCC if not treated early
3. Melanoma
- Most dangerous type of skin cancer
- Often develops in a mole or appears as a new dark spot on the skin
- Can spread rapidly to other organs if not detected early
Causes and Risk Factors
Skin cancer mainly develops due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, either from the sun or tanning beds. Key risk factors include:
- Fair skin or light hair and eye color
- History of sunburns
- Excessive sun exposure or outdoor work
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
- Presence of many or unusual moles
- Weakened immune system
Warning Signs & Symptoms
Watch for changes in your skin, especially in moles or new spots. The ABCDE rule helps detect melanoma:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other
- B – Border: Irregular or blurred edges
- C – Color: Uneven color or multiple shades
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser)
- E – Evolving: Any change in shape, size, or symptoms like itching or bleeding
Other signs:
- Non-healing sores
- Raised, crusty patches
- Red, scaly lesions
