Understanding cancer
Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die, and new cells take their place. But sometimes this process goes wrong. |
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The three types of skin cancer
Exposure to sunlight can increase your risk of developing one or more of the three types of skin cancer. |
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Basal cell cancer
Basal cell cancer (BCC) is a type of skin cancer caused by exposure to the sun. It is also called a rodent ulcer.
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Melanoma
Melanoma is a potentially serious skin cancer that develops from normal skin cells called melanocytes.The cells become malignant and start growing uncontrollably, |
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Risk factors for skin cancer
Doctors can't explain why one person develops skin cancer and another doesn't. But research has shown that people with certain risk factors are more likely to get it than others. |
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Skin cancer symptoms
Most basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers can be cured if found and treated early. Here's what to look out for. |
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What’s a mole, anyway?
A mole is basically a brownish spot or blemish on the skin. The darker hue is provided by melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. |
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How is skin cancer diagnosed?
If you have a change on the skin, your doctor must find out whether it's due to cancer or to some other cause. This usually involves a biopsy. |
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Are you at risk of skin cancer?
If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you are at risk of skin cancer. |
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Beating skin cancer
There isn’t really anything like a healthy suntan. All damage to your skin is accumulative and sunburn at 16 could very well mean skin cancer at 35. |
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How to do a skin self-examination
Are you at risk of skin cancer? Then your doctor may recommend that you do a regular skin self-examination. Follow this step-by-step guide. |
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Don’t ignore ‘sun spots’
If you’ve noticed a small spot or rough patch on your skin that doesn’t seem to be going away, don’t just ignore it. It could be pre-cancerous. |
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Whatever skin you're in, cover up
All South Africans, regardless of their skin colour, should take heed when spending long periods of time in the sun. |
