Skin Cancer

Jun 16, 2022

Understanding Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that affects the skin's outer layer. It commonly occurs when skin cells are damaged by the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. At Bay Regional Medical Center, we understand the importance of early detection and effective treatment for skin cancer.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer, BCC typically appears as a small, shiny bump or a red, scaly patch. It usually develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, and arms.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC often presents as a firm, red nodule or a flat, scaly patch. It commonly occurs on sun-exposed areas, including the face, ears, and hands.
  • Melanoma: Considered the most dangerous type of skin cancer, melanoma can develop from existing moles or appear as a new, abnormal growth. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving survival rates.

Skin Cancer Prevention

At Bay Regional Medical Center, we prioritize patient education and encourage preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Here are some tips to protect your skin:

  • Apply Sunscreen: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if sweating or swimming.
  • Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Seek shade and avoid direct sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 AM to 4 PM when the sun's rays are the strongest.
  • Wear Protective Clothing: Cover your skin with long-sleeved shirts, pants, broad-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to shield against harmful UV rays.
  • Perform Self-Examinations: Regularly inspect your skin for any changes in moles, growths, or spots. Consult a dermatologist if you notice anything suspicious.
  • Stay Away from Tanning Beds: Artificial tanning devices emit harmful UV rays that increase the risk of skin cancer. Opt for sunless tanning alternatives instead.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Our dermatology experts at Bay Regional Medical Center offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options for skin cancer. We utilize advanced techniques to identify and stage skin cancer, ensuring personalized care for our patients.

1. Diagnosis

Our experienced dermatologists perform thorough examinations, including:

  • Visual Inspection: A visual examination to assess skin abnormalities, moles, or growths.
  • Dermoscopy: The use of a dermatoscope to magnify and evaluate skin lesions in detail.
  • Biopsy: If a suspicious area is detected, a small sample of tissue may be collected and sent for laboratory analysis to determine if it is cancerous.

2. Treatment

Based on the type, stage, and location of skin cancer, our dermatology team develops individualized treatment plans, which may include:

  • Surgical Excision: Removing cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure complete removal.
  • Mohs Surgery: A precise surgical technique that gradually removes layers of cancerous tissue, minimizing damage to healthy skin.
  • Topical Medications: Creams or gels containing anti-cancer agents to treat superficial skin cancer.
  • Radiation Therapy: The use of high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.
  • Immunotherapy: Medications that enhance the body's immune system to fight against cancer cells.
  • Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth through systemic treatment.

Expert Dermatology Team

At Bay Regional Medical Center, our dermatology team consists of experienced and highly skilled physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions, including skin cancer. With their advanced knowledge and commitment to patient care, you can trust our experts to provide you with the highest quality treatment and support throughout your journey.

Contact Us

If you have any concerns about skin cancer or would like to schedule an appointment with our dermatology department, please feel free to reach out to us. We are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal skin health and overall well-being.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment options.

Roy Pinzon
Raising awareness about skin cancer can lead to positive outcomes in early detection and treatment.
Nov 16, 2023
Kerrianne Smith
Protect your skin! ?
Nov 10, 2023
Jincy Jolly
Regular skin examinations and sun protection go hand in hand in preventing skin cancer.
Nov 10, 2023
Susan Corona
This article provides a concise overview of skin cancer and its implications.
Nov 3, 2023
David Kasiarz
This article serves as a timely reminder to prioritize skin cancer prevention measures.
Oct 30, 2023
Martha Olson
Raising awareness about skin cancer is a collective responsibility that starts with information dissemination.
Oct 28, 2023
Valerian Thomas
Thank you for shedding light on the importance of skin cancer awareness.
Oct 25, 2023
Helen Clarke
Thank you for highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment for skin cancer.
Oct 23, 2023
Janice Cadieux
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Oct 19, 2023
Greg Ahrens
Educating people about the signs of skin cancer can help save lives.
Oct 11, 2023
Gene Cervini
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Oct 9, 2023
Dominic Banner
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Oct 9, 2023
Joshua Dunaboyina
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Oct 6, 2023
Josh McDougall
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Sep 30, 2023
Rhi Smith
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Sep 26, 2023
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Sep 23, 2023
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Sep 21, 2023
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Sep 12, 2023
Denise Cooper
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Sep 9, 2023
Ed Frazier
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Sep 8, 2023
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Sep 4, 2023
Kathy Anderson
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Aug 18, 2023
Randy Curtis
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Aug 15, 2023
Vladimir Arandjelovic
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Aug 15, 2023
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Aug 8, 2023
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Jul 19, 2023
Lance Davis
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Jul 16, 2023
Ian Lyford
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Jul 9, 2023
Gopal Raha
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Jul 3, 2023
Fnzencaiv4
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Jun 27, 2023
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Jun 26, 2023
Gail Washington
Thank you for promoting awareness about the dangers of UV exposure.
Jun 24, 2023
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Jun 23, 2023
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Jun 8, 2023
Ron Webb
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Jun 2, 2023
Ben Rolston
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May 26, 2023
Aaron Lewis
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May 26, 2023
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May 25, 2023
John Lauer
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May 24, 2023
Michelle Mi
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May 22, 2023
Alex Tramont
Thanks for raising awareness about the dangers of UV exposure.
May 19, 2023
Debra Bowen
Educational resources like this article contribute to a more informed approach to skin cancer prevention.
May 18, 2023
Zach Wolf
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May 12, 2023
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May 6, 2023
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May 5, 2023
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May 2, 2023
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Apr 29, 2023
Mark Rudkin
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Apr 25, 2023
Jesus Arredondo
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Apr 23, 2023
Bernie Schmidt
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Apr 18, 2023
Tom Hruby
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Apr 17, 2023
Lawrence Lepard
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Apr 1, 2023
Sean Koontz
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Mar 28, 2023
Sharon Shigginbothan
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Mar 17, 2023
Manjunath Tn
Taking steps to protect the skin from UV rays is a proactive approach to skin cancer prevention.
Mar 6, 2023
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Feb 24, 2023
Deborah Adelola
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Feb 22, 2023
William Tafuto
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Feb 15, 2023
Christopher Tom
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Jan 20, 2023
Toni Szerzyna
Skin cancer prevention should be a priority for everyone, regardless of age or skin type.
Jan 16, 2023
Drew Levin
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Jan 8, 2023
Kassandra Quintero
Understanding the role of UV exposure in skin cancer development is crucial for prevention.
Dec 26, 2022
Dawn Donatoni
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Dec 23, 2022
Rileigh Frend
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Dec 18, 2022
Sherri White
Sun protection is not just a cosmetic concern, but a health imperative.
Dec 15, 2022
Carlos Diaz
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Dec 14, 2022
Arquiteknicas Sas
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Dec 8, 2022
Elisa Flores
The emphasis on understanding skin cancer is pivotal to promoting vigilant sun protection.
Nov 29, 2022
Edward Krasnove
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Nov 28, 2022
Matt McKernan
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Nov 11, 2022
Vince Demaio
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Nov 5, 2022
Kimberly Brown
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Nov 4, 2022
Dorothy Wilford
Proactive steps in sun safety can help reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Nov 2, 2022
Kate Maul
Regular skin check-ups are essential for early detection of skin cancer.
Oct 28, 2022
Blake Whitaker
It's important to be vigilant about changes in skin and moles, especially in sunny climates.
Oct 26, 2022
Stephanie Vorndran
It's inspiring to see medical centers taking proactive steps in skin cancer awareness.
Oct 26, 2022
Bruce Lawton
UV protection should be a priority for everyone, regardless of skin type.
Oct 22, 2022
Adam Balhouse
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Oct 10, 2022
Carol Lott
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Oct 5, 2022
Migin Vincent
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Oct 2, 2022
Kirk Winkelman
The awareness created through articles like this can help save lives.
Oct 1, 2022
Starke Farley
Regular self-examinations can aid in early detection of skin cancer.
Sep 30, 2022
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Skin cancer is a serious concern, and knowing the risk factors is crucial.
Sep 28, 2022
Lalit Bansal
This article reinforces the importance of proactive measures for skin cancer prevention.
Sep 20, 2022
Bernhard Unrecht
Preventing skin cancer starts with being aware of the potential dangers of UV exposure.
Sep 17, 2022
Victor Funes
Educational initiatives like this article contribute to raising public awareness about skin cancer.
Aug 26, 2022
Laura Hollingsworth
Taking steps to minimize sun exposure is a proactive approach to preventing skin cancer.
Aug 12, 2022
Richard McCormack
Regular use of sunscreen is crucial in reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Aug 8, 2022
Nick Wheeler
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Jul 25, 2022
Mhd Taufiq
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Jul 22, 2022
Michael O'Donnell
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Jul 16, 2022
Scott Peterson
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Jul 13, 2022
Bechard
I appreciate the focus on the importance of skin cancer prevention measures.
Jul 11, 2022
Rob Burrows
Raising awareness about skin cancer can lead to positive outcomes in early detection and treatment.
Jul 6, 2022
Tobey Simpson
This article underscores the significance of proactive measures to prevent skin cancer.
Jul 1, 2022
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