What is skin cancer

Skin cancer is an uncontrolled malignant tumor disease caused by abnormal proliferation of skin cells. It is mainly divided into three types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous and has a higher degree of malignancy. The formation of skin cancer is closely related to factors such as ultraviolet radiation, genetic genes, abnormal immune function and long-term exposure to harmful chemicals.

Ultraviolet exposure is the main external factor that induces skin cancer. Long-term exposure to high-intensity sunlight, especially when effective protective measures are not taken, ultraviolet rays can damage the DNA of skin cells and easily cause cancer. Genetic factors should not be ignored either. People with a family history of skin cancer have a higher risk of the disease. Low immunity or long-term chronic diseases affect the immune monitoring function and can easily cause abnormal cell proliferation and cancer. Exposure to harmful chemicals such as arsenic, or repeated skin trauma and infection, may also cause pathological changes in cells and form skin cancer.

Ultraviolet exposure is the main external factor that induces skin cancer. Long-term exposure to high-intensity sunlight, especially when effective protective measures are not taken, ultraviolet rays can damage the DNA of skin cells and easily cause cancer. Genetic factors should not be ignored either. People with a family history of skin cancer have a higher risk of the disease. Low immunity or long-term chronic diseases affect the immune monitoring function and can easily cause abnormal cell proliferation and cancer. Exposure to harmful chemicals such as arsenic, or repeated skin trauma and infection, may also cause pathological changes in cells and form skin cancer.

The key to preventing skin cancer is to reduce UV damage. It is recommended to use broad-spectrum sunscreen correctly when going out, wear sun hats, sunglasses and other sun protection equipment, and avoid exposure to the sun during periods of strong UV rays (10 am to 4 pm). In daily life, you should regularly check for abnormal changes in your skin, especially moles or patches with abnormal color, shape and size. If ulcers, nodules and pain occur, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If skin cancer has been confirmed, surgical excision, photodynamic therapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors and other treatments can be used according to the type and stage. Regular follow-up is essential for disease management.