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Skin Cancer Awareness: Types, Signs, and Diagnosis

Dr. Kusumika Kanak, a consultant dermatologist and cosmetologist at Sahyadri Hospital, addresses the important topic of skin cancer awareness and prevention. Despite the common misconception that skin cancer is rare in India, Dr. Kanak emphasises that it does occur and its incidence is gradually increasing.

Dr. Kusumika Kanak, a consultant dermatologist and cosmetologist at Sahyadri Hospital, addresses the important topic of skin cancer awareness and prevention. Despite the common misconception that skin cancer is rare in India, Dr. Kanak emphasises that it does occur and its incidence is gradually increasing.

Skin cancer is less prevalent in India compared to foreign countries, primarily due to the higher melanin content in Indian skin, which offers some protection against sun damage. However, lifestyle changes, genetic predisposition, stress factors, and the use of alcohol and tobacco are contributing to a rise in skin cancer cases. Studies indicate that skin cancer incidence is higher in North India than in South India, potentially due to variations in altitude and environmental factors.

Skin cancer can generally be categorised into two types: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is less common in India, while non-melanoma skin cancers include basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Awareness of the symptoms associated with skin cancer is crucial for early detection and treatment.

It is vital to be vigilant about skin changes. Signs to look for include:

• Non-healing wounds that bleed and exhibit redness in surrounding tissues.
• Changes in moles or birthmarks, such as sudden increase in size, bleeding, or colour changes.
• In women, persistent friction from clothing that leads to skin irritation or wounds should be evaluated by a doctor.

Preventative measures do not require extensive resources; historical practices provide insights into effective strategies. Key prevention methods include:

• Regularly using sunscreen regardless of the weather, indoors or outdoors.
• Wearing a cap or covering the skin with a scarf or dupatta when going outside.
• Using broad-spectrum sunscreen to ensure adequate protection.
• Wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes from harmful UV rays.

In addition to sun protection, lifestyle choices play a significant role in skin health. Avoiding tobacco and alcohol can help reduce skin damage. Individuals with a family history of skin cancer should consider annual check-ups with their doctor for early detection.

Dr. Kusumika Kanak hopes that this information aids in raising awareness about skin cancer. For further queries or concerns, individuals are encouraged to reach out via the comment section or contact the hospital directly.