Common Misconceptions About Skin Cancer
Your skin is the largest organ in your body. It's different from other organs because you can see it and touch it. However, like other organs, your skin is capable of developing cancer. Skin cancer diagnostic and treatment measures have come a long way over the past few years. However, there are still a lot of misconceptions floating around. Here are a few of them.
Myth: People only get skin cancer when they spend time in the sun.
It is true that sun exposure is a major risk factor for skin cancer. The more time you spend in the sun, the more likely you are to develop cancerous lesions on your skin. However, there are people who barely spend any time in the sun who still develop skin cancer. There are lots of other risk factors, such as poor diet, smoking, and certain genetic markers. Therefore, regardless of your level of sun exposure, it is important to see a dermatologist if you notice any symptoms of skin cancer.
Myth: Skin cancer only affects people with light skin.
People with lighter skin do tend to be at a higher risk for skin cancer because their skin is more affected by the sun. But dark-skinned people can develop skin cancer, too. These cancers affect everyone of every ethnicity and skin tone.
Myth: Skin cancer doesn't need to be treated since it's so slow-growing.
There are some slow-growing skin cancers that can be non-problematic for years. However, there are other skin cancers that spread through the body very rapidly and can easily become deadly if you don't have them treated ASAP. Unless you're a dermatologist, it is really hard to tell the difference. Plus, a skin cancer that is initially slow-growing can change course and become faster-growing at any point. So, it is always best to have your skin cancer diagnosed and treated instead of making assumptions about its growth.
Myth: Skin cancer doesn't require radiation or chemotherapy to treat.
It depends on the skin cancer that you have. Some less aggressive types of skin cancer can just be removed. Other types, such as melanoma, are often treated with radiation or chemotherapy after removal. Skin cancer can spread to other tissues, and these more intensive treatments often prevent that from happening.
Hopefully, this piece has cleared up some common myths about skin cancer. Talk to your dermatologist to learn more about skin cancer or to pursue a diagnosis.
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