Skin cancer in NJ may be one of the more common cancers and perhaps even one of the most treatable because it is accessible for treatment and more easily eradicated. This does not say it is not serious. Any cancer is serious for many reasons. It can easily spread undetected and become a monster under cover.
Skin cancer originates in the skin cells that are most exposed to the sun and weather. It is all skin cancer, but there are different mutations. The types of cells include be melanocytes, squamous or basal cells. Whichever cell type is affected determines what type of cancer that subsequently develops.
Types of Skin Cancer
Melanoma – This may be one of the easiest to physically see because it will more than likely be in the form of a mole. This mole changes in color, size or feel and could change in all ways. These may be new moles or old moles that have always been there. It may have speckles or irregular borders as well.
Basal Cell Carcinoma – The Basal cell carcinoma is an open sore and is usually red or pink or it might present itself with shiny bumps. The most common place on which this skin cancer in NJ appears is on the hands or face, as well as the ears or lips.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Squamous presents itself also with red patches but can also be a wart or open sore. What is different with this kind is it may bleed and then crust over.
Uncommon – There are also the uncommon types that may present themselves with a red or purple patch. These are referred to as Kaposi sarcomas. If the cancer appears as a firm shiny nodule, it is referred to as a Merkel cell carcinoma, but if it is without pain and hard, it could be a sebaceous gland carcinoma.
Other Factors Regarding Skin Cancer
Skin exposure to the sun and the elements is the prime cause of skin cancer in NJ, but there are also other factors. One other factor comes from an individual’s skin being exposed to toxic substances. If an individual has a fragile immune system, the risk level for skin cancer is elevated.
Skin cancer in NJ can occur in the young and the old, but as with other conditions and diseases, the risk goes up with age. This is why it is important to take proper care of your skin and use sunscreen to further reduce the risks.
