Article Detail
Educational series on common skin diseases emphasizing early detection and prevention of skin cancer.
The Hidden Cancer
It's a scientific fact that what is considered the most widespread cancer in the world is skin cancer, the least mentioned on the global medical scene. The number of cases recorded annually worldwide exceeds breast cancer by five times. The reason may be that it is not counted among the deadly cancers, or that most cases are treated in early stages.
It's natural for the skin to achieve advanced positions as it is the largest organ of the body and most interactive with the external environment of pollutants and radiation. The discussion seems routine and boring unless the reality corrects misconceptions, the first and most important of which is that moles or black birthmarks are not considered latent cancers as some believe, and that many of the pimples and bumps in areas exposed to sunlight may be more dangerous than they appear.
Types Of Skin Cancer
All skin cells - squamous, pigmentary, and immune - can transform into cancers. What is more dangerous is that the skin can be a reflection of what is happening inside you, with some cancers like colon, lung, blood, and breast appearing in the form of bumps that people don't pay attention to. A small percentage of skin cancers pose a life threat, but like other cancers, early detection is the best solution.
Early Detection Methods
Dermatologists trained in using technologies such as dermoscopy, digital scanning, and skin biopsies play a major role in early detection. The optical dermoscopy lens remains the only tool capable of predicting skin cancer before it worsens. Warning signs include changes in shape, size, or bleeding from moles, especially large congenital moles exceeding forty centimeters in diameter.
Risk Factors
Understanding what increases skin cancer risk.
Prevention Strategies
Practical steps to reduce skin cancer risk.
Educational Message
This educational series, published by Dr. Adam as part of the Common Skin Diseases Series for Jordan University of Science and Technology, aims to raise awareness about skin cancer in simple, understandable language. The articles discuss the most important and common skin diseases in our society, presenting concepts, prevention methods, and treatment approaches accessible to all.
