New York dermatologist explains the common causes and types of skin cancer

As the most common cancer, skin cancer is diagnosed in over 5.4 million people each year. Skin cancer is treatable when caught early. Dr. Stephen Comite and the team at SkinProvement Dermatology New York explain the causes of skin cancer and offer treatment options to patients in the New York, NY area.

Causes of skin cancer

Skin cancer involves the abnormal growth of skin cells. It usually occurs on skin that is regularly exposed to the sun but can develop on other areas of the skin too. It develops when mutations form in the DNA of skin cells. The mutations spin out of control creating a mass of cancer cells. Damage to skin cells is often caused by ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning beds. However, additional risk factors include that may increase the chances of skin cancer include:

• Fair skin
• History of sunburns
• Excessive sun exposure
• Moles
• Precancerous skin lesions
• Family and/or personal history
• Weak immune system
• Exposure to radiation

Types of skin cancer

Although there are various types of skin cancer each with different levels of severity, there are three common forms. Basal cell carcinomas form after regular sun exposure. They may be open sores, red patchy skin, growths, or shiny bumps. Squamous cell carcinomas have the potential to be deadly or disfiguring. They appear as non-healing sores, warts, raised bumps with a depression in the center, or scaly red skin. Melanomas are the most dangerous form of skin cancer. They may look like moles or develop from existing moles.

Skin checks should be performed on yourself every month and with a dermatologist, every six months since changes can occur quickly. Early detection is the key to successful treatment for skin cancer. The earlier a problem is found, the higher the chances of treating it. During your skin check, use the ABCDE rule. Watch for the following red flags:

• Asymmetrical moles
• Borders that are uneven
• Color in shades of red, white, black or multiple colors
• Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
• Evolving in color, size or shape

To learn more about the causes of skin cancer, contact the SkinProvement Dermatology of New York. Call (212) 933-9490.

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