Skin cancer: symptoms, warning signs and how to prevent it

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and can affect people of any age. It develops when skin cells undergo alterations in their DNA and begin to grow uncontrollably, leading to lesions that can affect nearby tissues and, in some cases, spread to other parts of the body.

Although there are various factors associated with its development, cumulative exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun remains one of the main causes. Therefore, knowing the warning signs and adopting protective measures can help maintain skin health and facilitate timely diagnosis.

What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when skin cells multiply abnormally due to changes in their genetic material. These alterations can cause visible skin lesions that vary depending on the type of cancer and its stage of development.

It can appear anywhere on the body, although it is more common in areas that receive greater sun exposure, such as the face, neck, ears, scalp, arms, and hands.

Main Types of Skin Cancer
There are different types of skin cancer, but the most common are:

Basal Cell Carcinoma
This is the most common type. It generally grows slowly and usually develops in areas exposed to the sun. When identified and treated promptly, it usually has a good prognosis.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This can appear as a scaly lesion, a thickened plaque, or a wound that does not heal. It requires medical evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment and avoid complications.

Melanoma
Although less common than other types of skin cancer, melanoma is considered the most aggressive due to its ability to spread to other organs. Early detection can significantly improve treatment options.

Warning Signs: When to See a Doctor
Skin cancer symptoms can vary from person to person. However, there are skin changes that should prompt a consultation with a dermatologist:
• Appearance of a new mole or spot.

• Changes in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole.

• Lesions that progressively increase in size.

• Sores that do not heal or recur.

• Spots with irregular or poorly defined borders.

• Itching, pain, or bleeding in a lesion.

• Lumps or raised areas that appear shiny, crusty, or scaly.

The ABCDE Rule for Identifying Suspicious Lesions
The ABCDE rule is a useful guide for recognizing characteristics that may be associated with melanoma:
A – Asymmetry: one half of the lesion is different from the other.

B – Border: the borders are irregular, jagged, or poorly defined.

C – Color: there are different shades within the same lesion.

D – Diameter: it measures more than 6 millimeters.

E – Evolution: it undergoes changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms such as bleeding or itching.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.

Risk Factors
Although anyone can develop skin cancer, some factors can increase the likelihood:
• Frequent and prolonged sun exposure without protection.

• Family history of skin cancer.

• Presence of multiple moles or pigmented lesions.

• Sunburns during childhood or adolescence.

• Use of tanning beds or sunbeds.

• Weakened immune system.

• Outdoor work or recreational activities.

• Fair skin or greater sensitivity to UV radiation.

Knowing these factors allows you to take preventive measures and pay closer attention to any changes in your skin.

How to Prevent Skin Cancer?
Prevention is one of the most effective tools for reducing the risk of developing skin cancer. Some recommendations include using sunscreen daily and reapplying it according to the product instructions, especially during outdoor activities. It is also advisable to avoid sun exposure during peak hours, seek shade, and supplement sun protection with hats, sunglasses, and appropriate clothing.
Additionally, avoiding tanning beds and regularly checking your skin can help identify changes that require medical evaluation.

Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnosis of skin cancer begins with a clinical evaluation by a dermatologist. If a malignant lesion is suspected, additional tests such as dermatoscopy, skin biopsy, or other examinations may be ordered, depending on the individual case.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment is determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the type of cancer, the size of the lesion, its location, and the stage of the disease.
Therapeutic options may include

Surgery, specialized dermatological procedures, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies in specific situations.

Consult a doctor if you notice any changes in your skin. The appearance of new lesions, changes in existing moles, or wounds that do not heal are signs that should not be ignored. A timely medical evaluation allows for an accurate diagnosis and the determination of the most appropriate treatment for each case.

At Hospital Serena del Mar, we have dermatology specialists for the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of skin diseases, providing comprehensive care focused on the care, prevention, and well-being of our patients.

If you identify any suspicious lesions or wish to schedule a preventive evaluation, please schedule an appointment with our specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions about Skin Cancer
Where on the body does skin cancer most commonly appear?
It usually appears in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, ears, scalp, arms, and hands. However, it can also appear in less exposed areas.

Can people with dark skin develop skin cancer? Yes. Although the risk is generally higher in people with fair skin, skin cancer can affect any skin type.

Does melanoma always appear on a mole?
No. It can develop on an existing mole or appear as a new skin lesion.

Which specialist diagnoses and treats skin cancer?
A dermatologist is the professional responsible for evaluating suspicious lesions, performing diagnostic tests, and determining the most appropriate treatment.

What treatments are available for melanoma?
Depending on the stage of the disease, treatment may include surgery, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, radiation therapy, or other alternatives determined by the medical team.

When should I consult a doctor about a skin lesion?
When a lesion changes in size, shape, or color, bleeds, itches, or does not heal after several weeks.