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Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin. This occurs when the DNA in skin cells is damaged, usually by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, and the body is unable to repair the damage. As a result, the cells begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a

Types of skin cancer
1. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): It is the most common type of skin cancer. It
develops in the basal cells, which are in the deepest layer of the epidermis.
2. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Forms in squamous cells, which are flat
cells in the outer layer of the skin.
3. Melanoma: It is the most serious type of skin cancer and originates in
melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment.
4. Merkel cell carcinoma: A rare but aggressive type of skin cancer.
5. Kaposi sarcoma: A rare cancer that begins in the blood vessels of the skin.

Who is at higher risk of skin cancer?
1. Excessive sun exposure. UV radiation is the main risk factor.
2. Use of tanning beds: Significantly increases the risk.
3. Light skin: People with light skin, blonde or red hair, and light eyes are at
greater risk.
4. History of sunburn: Especially those that occurred in childhood.
5. Family history of skin cancer.
6. Weakened immune system: Due to diseases or immunosuppressive
medications.
7. Advanced age: The risk increases with age.
8. Presence of many moles or atypical moles.

Diagnosis of skin cancer
1. Skin self-examination Regular skin check to detect changes or new formations.
2. Clinical examination: Evaluation by a dermatologist.
3. Skin biopsy: Extraction of a skin sample for microscopic analysis.

Skin cancer treatments
1. Surgery: Removal of the tumor is the most common treatment.
2. Cryotherapy: Freezing cancer with liquid nitrogen.
3. Radiotherapy: Use of radiation to destroy cancer cells  

4. Photodynamic therapy: Use of light to activate a drug that kills cancer cells.
5. Laser therapy: Use of laser to treat affected areas.
6. Immunotherapy: Stimulation of the immune system to attack cancer.
7. Topical chemotherapy: Application of medications directly to the skin.

Precautions to prevent skin cancer
1. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours: Between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. and 4 p.m.
2. Use sunscreen: With an SPF of at least 30.
3. Wear protective clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, hats and sunglasses.
4. Avoid tanning beds.
5. Do regular skin self-examinations.

Skin screening to rule out skin cancer
1. Regular self-examinations: Check the skin monthly for changes.
2. Annual dermatological examinations: Especially for people at high risk.
3. Dermatoscopy: Use of a dermatoscope for detailed evaluation of skin lesions.

Cancer of the conjunctiva due to the sun
Cancer of the conjunctiva, although rare, can be caused by prolonged
exposure to UV radiation. It manifests itself as a mass or growth on the
conjunctiva of the eye. It is important to wear sunglasses with UV protection to
prevent this type of cancer. 

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