Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with an estimated 9,500 new diagnoses every day according to statistics shared by the American Academy of Dermatology Association. The same source estimates that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. In this brief article brought to you by Southern Maryland Medical Group, we will review the risk factors and causes of skin cancer as well as some preventative measures that can reduce your risk. If you are looking for primary care doctors or a primary care clinic in the Southern Maryland area, you can call Southern Maryland Medical Group.
Cancer is a disease in which cells in some part(s) of the body grow uncontrollably and may spread to other parts of the body. Normally, cells grow and multiply through a process called cell division; Cells die when they become damaged or grow old, and new cells take their place. Sadly, this process sometimes breaks down, causing mutated or damaged cells to grow and multiply. These cells can form tumors, or lumps of tissue, which can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous).
Skin cancer affects the body’s largest organ: the skin. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas compete as the most common types of skin cancer, and melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer. However, melanoma causes more deaths because it tends to spread to other body parts, including vital organs.
In short, cancer occurs when mutations occur in the DNA of skin cells and cause them to grow out of control, clump together, and possibly spread. Anyone can get skin cancer, but people with the following characteristics are at greater risk:
Most cases of skin cancer are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which commonly come from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps.
Everyone should actively combat the risk of skin cancer, but people with characteristics mentioned earlier should go twice the distance. Some skin cancer prevention techniques include:
Do you notice brownish spots or moles growing on your skin? If you are concerned about your risk of skin cancer, then visit one of our clinics or call now to schedule a screening. We are happy to schedule a convenient appointment or accept you as a walk-in as soon as possible.
Southern Maryland Medical Group has 3 convenient locations to provide professional medical care services in the Southern Maryland area. Call or schedule an appointment with one of our locations to get medical care help.
5801 Allentown Road, Suite 400 Camp Spring, MD 20746
Phone: 301-868- 0150
Billing Inquiries: 301-552-1270
Fax: 301-868-0243
7500 Greenway Center, Dr #1200 Greenbelt, MD 20770
Phone: 301-486-7580
Billing Inquiries: 301-552-1270
Fax: 301-486-7581
6510 Kenilworth Ave, Ste 1400, Riverdale MD 20737
Phone: 301-618-0771
Billing Inquiries: 301-552-1270
Fax: 301-618-0772
