University of Iowa Health Science Relations and
Chris Arpey, MD
Associate Professor, Dermatology
First Published: 2002
Last Revised: March 2004
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Skin cancer affects about the same number of patients as all other cancers combined according to the American Cancer Society. It is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting some one million Americans each year. Baby boomers who had severe sunburns as children or who, as adults, play in the sun are a high-risk population for developing skin cancers. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. UV radiation from tanning beds or sun lamps also may cause skin cancer.

The most common types of skin cancer, squamous cell and basal cell carcinoma, are curable in more than 98 percent of patients, but early detection and treatment are crucial says UI Health Care dermatologist Chris Arpey, MD Of the two, squamous cell carcinoma is the most dangerous. The prognosis for melanoma patients is not as positive because the melanoma tumor may spread to other parts of the body, invading major organs. The incidence of melanoma is lower than other types of skin cancer, but it is responsible for 75 percent of all deaths from skin cancer. While squamous cell carcinoma also may spread, Arpey says it is not as threatening as melanoma.

If you notice any change in a preexisting skin growth or the development of a new growth or open sore that fails to heal, contact a physician immediately.

Squamous cell cancer warning signs include:

• a wart-like growth that crusts and occasionally bleeds;
• a persistent, scaly red patch with irregular borders that sometimes crusts or bleed;
• an open sore that bleeds and crusts and persists for week;
• an elevated growth with a central depression that occasionally bleeds;
• a growth of this type may rapidly increase in size.

Basal cell cancer warning signs include:

• an open sore that bleeds or remains open for three or more weeks;
• a reddish patch or irritated area that may itch or hurt;
• a shiny bump that is pearly or translucent and is often pink, red, or white;
• a pink growth with a slightly elevated rolled border and crusted indentation;
• a scar-like area that is white, yellow or waxy.

The prognosis for melanoma patients is not as positive because the melanoma tumor may spread to other parts of the body, invading major organs. The incidence of melanoma is lower than other types of skin cancer, but it is responsible for 75 percent of all deaths from skin cancer. While squamous cell carcinoma also may spread, Arpey says it is not as threatening as melanoma. Melanoma warning signs include growth of a new mole, or if an existing mole itches, bleeds, grows, or changes in size, shape, or color.

Sun Safety Tips

• Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Stay in the shade when possible.
• Use a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater, even on cloudy days.
• Sunscreens should be used anytime you will be in the sun for more than 20 minutes. Apply the sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before going outdoors.
• Don't forget your lips, use a lip balm containing sunscreen.
• Re-apply the sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days. Look for a waterproof variety if you will be sweating or swimming.
• Wear protective clothing like broad-brimmed hats, long pants and long-sleeved shirts.
• Protect your eyes with sunglasses.