The skin, our body's largest organ, protects muscles, bones, ligaments, and vital organs. In the Netherlands, it's the most common cancer, per KWF data. Like other cancers, skin cancer can invade healthy tissue and metastasize if undetected or untreated, potentially leading to loss of function or death. Regularly check your skin for changes that may signal trouble.
Types of Skin Cancer
Various forms exist, often triggered by ultraviolet (UV) radiation damaging skin cell DNA. The three most common are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma, the most frequent type, rarely spreads beyond its origin but can locally destroy tissue, forming bleeding sores if ignored. Cumulative UV exposure, especially sunburns, heightens risk.
Squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common, stems from chronic sun exposure. It's locally invasive and can metastasize to lymph nodes or distant organs.
Melanoma, the most aggressive, spreads rapidly and can be fatal without treatment. Acral lentiginous melanoma often appears on palms, soles, or under toenails in darker-skinned individuals.
Risk Factors Most cases link to UV radiation from sun or artificial sources like tanning beds and UV lamps, which damage DNA over time. Genetics play a key role, especially in melanoma. Proximity to the equator intensifies UV exposure.
Skin cancer affects anyone, though types and sites vary by ethnicity—even deeply pigmented skin isn't immune.
Key risks include fair skin prone to burning, red or light hair, light eyes, childhood in sunny latitudes, multiple sunburns, outdoor occupations, prolonged sun exposure, family history, older age, prior radiation therapy, chronic blood cancers, and immunosuppressive drugs.
Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer
Non-melanoma signs: steadily growing red lesions, non-healing sores or crusts, pearly or translucent lumps, shiny patches.
Melanoma often shows as asymmetrical, irregularly bordered, multi-colored or deeply pigmented spots or lumps. Examine new or changing moles in adults.
Protect Your Skin
Prioritize UV prevention: Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily to exposed areas—opt for non-greasy formulas blocking UVA/UVB. Many moisturizers include it for easy use. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. Avoid peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
