If you’re someone who loves spending time under the sun, it’s essential that you stay on top of your skin health. With skin cancer being one of the most common types of cancer, checking your skin for abnormalities can be life-saving. Regular skin checks with your dermatologist and keeping an eye out for any unusual changes on your skin can help you identify potential trouble early on. But how well do you know the signs and symptoms of skin cancer? Take this quiz to test your knowledge about skin cancer.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. It occurs when abnormal cells grow in the skin’s outermost layer. Most skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, either from the sun or from tanning beds. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are more common types of cancer, but melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
What are the Risk Factors for Skin Cancer?
Several factors increase the risk of developing skin cancer:
- Having fair skin
- Exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds
- A history of sunburns
- A family history of skin cancer
- Weakened immune system
- Exposure to certain chemicals such as arsenic
- Having many moles or unusual moles
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer?
Early detection of skin cancer is critical for successful treatment. Here are some signs and symptoms you should watch out for:
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a waxy bump or a flesh-colored pearl-like growth. It may bleed easily, crust or scab over, and never completely heals.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a red, scaly patch or a firm, raised bump. It is typically found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, arms, and legs.
Melanoma
Unlike basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which can take years to grow and become visible, melanoma often develops rapidly. It can appear as an irregularly shaped mole with uneven color, or it may be multicolored, with shades of brown, black, and red. A melanoma may itch, burn or bleed, or it may not cause any discomfort at all.
Do you have Skin Cancer?
If you’re concerned about skin cancer, it’s essential that you see a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- Do you have any moles or growths on your skin that have changed in size or color?
- Have you noticed any new moles or growths?
- Do any of your moles or growths itch, hurt, bleed, or crust over?
- Have you ever had a blistering sunburn?
- Have you ever used tanning beds?
- Do you have a family history of skin cancer?
What should I Do if I Suspect that I Have Skin Cancer?
If you notice any suspicious moles or skin growths, you should see a dermatologist for a complete skin exam. Your dermatologist will assess your skin and may perform a biopsy of any abnormal-looking areas. If the biopsy comes back positive for skin cancer, your dermatologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan.
How can I Lower my Risk of Developing Skin Cancer?
You can take steps to lower your risk of developing skin cancer:
- Avoid tanning beds and limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm)
- Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, hats, and sunglasses
- Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours
- Avoid sunburns, as they increase your risk of developing skin cancer later in life
- See a dermatologist for a skin exam at least once a year if you’re at high risk for skin cancer
Conclusion
Skin cancer is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. By understanding the signs and symptoms of skin cancer and taking steps to reduce your risk, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from this potentially deadly disease. Take this quiz to test your knowledge about skin cancer, and see a dermatologist if you have any concerns about your skin.
Do I have Skin Cancer Quiz Questions
- What are the three main types of skin cancer?
- What increases the risk of developing skin cancer?
- What are the signs and symptoms of basal cell carcinoma?
- What type of skin cancer can appear as a red, scaly patch?
- What is the most deadly form of skin cancer?
- What should you do if you suspect that you have skin cancer?
- What are some ways to lower your risk of developing skin cancer?
Do I have Skin Cancer Quiz Answers
- The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
- The risk factors for skin cancer include fair skin, exposure to UV radiation, a history of sunburns, a family history of skin cancer, a weakened immune system, exposure to certain chemicals, and having many moles or unusual moles.
- Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a waxy bump or a flesh-colored pearl-like growth. It may bleed easily, crust or scab over and never completely heals.
- Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as a red, scaly patch or a firm, raised bump. It is typically found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, arms, and legs.
- Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
- If you suspect that you have skin cancer, you should see a dermatologist for a complete skin exam. Your dermatologist will assess your skin and may perform a biopsy of any abnormal-looking areas.
- You can lower your risk of developing skin cancer by avoiding tanning beds and limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, avoiding sunburns, and seeing a dermatologist for a skin exam at least once a year if you are at high risk for skin cancer.
References
- American Cancer Society. (2021). About Skin Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/skin-cancer/about.html
- Cleveland Clinic. (2020). Skin Cancer: Symptoms, Types, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6777-skin-cancer
- National Cancer Institute. (2021). Skin Cancer (PDQ) – Patient Version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/skin-treatment-pdq