Who Typically Gets Squamous Cell Skin Cancer?
If you are over the age of fifty, have light colored skin, eyes and hair, are exposed to sunlight often, have had an unusual amount of x-rays or are exposed to chemicals often, you may be a high risk for squamous cell skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma skin cancer is very common amongst people who fit the above criteria. It is characterized by growing bumps that have scaly surfaces or flat reddish surfaces. Wounds that do not heal are also characteristics of squamous cell skin cancer. Nose, ears, arms, face and neck are some of the areas for the growth of tumors. If you have squamous cell skin cancer, the good news is that it can be treated if caught early. You should see a professional as soon as possible, however, if you think you may have it so that it can be treated before it spreads.
Protect Yourself From Squamous Cell Skin Cancer
If you are over fifty, or fit any of the above characteristics, it would be best to protect yourself before you get squamous cell skin cancer. That means protecting yourself from chemical exposure, wearing sun screen when you’re outside, as well as getting checked often. A dermatologist can inspect any existing moles or sores to determine if they are squamous cell skin cancer. Then, if your dermatologist does suspect that you have squamous cell skin cancer, proper testing and treatment will begin.
Testing And Treatment Of Squamous Cell Skin Cancer
A medical professional can usually eye a sore, mole or skin bump and determine if it’s squamous cell skin cancer. However, if the sore is questionable a biopsy will have to be done. A part of the skin is sent to the lab in this case. The lab will then determine if it’s cancerous or not. If identified earlier squamous cell skin cancer can be treated. The problem is that it can metastasize, or spread, to other areas of the body including internal organs. In this case radiation is needed.
It’s better to protect yourself so that you can protect yourself from getting squamous cell skin cancer, especially if you are a person in the high risk category. If you do have it though, get it looked at and treated. Make an appointment to see a dermatologist immediately at the first sign of a sore that doesn’t heal or a mole or bump that seems odd in appearance or that feels weird. Chances are you’ll be just fine.
