Skin cancer: how to identify suspicious signs

Skin cancer remains the most common type in Brazil and requires constant attention from the population.

This year, the incidence of the disease is expected to reach 704,000 new cases, according to projections from the National Cancer Institute (Inca), including carcinomas and melanomas.

Faced with this scenario, experts emphasize that regular observation of the skin and continued prevention are crucial for early diagnosis and increasing the chances of recovery.

According to professionals at the Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual (HSPE), in São Paulo, any wound that does not heal within four weeks should be investigated.

The warning applies to blemishes, moles or lesions that seem simple, but change over time.

Types of Skin Cancer Require Special Attention to Detail

There are three main types of skin cancer, each with specific characteristics:

Basal cell carcinoma, the most common, generally presents as a sore that does not heal.

While squamous cell carcinoma can appear as a bleeding scab, a rough area, or a wart that grows quickly.

Melanoma, although less common, is the most aggressive and usually manifests as a new mole or lesion that changes size, shape or color.

“Often, melanoma starts as an inconspicuous spot, which deviates from the pattern of other moles and ends up being ignored,” explains dermatologist Bethânia Cavalli, head of the HSPE cutaneous oncology outpatient clinic.

The ABCDE rule helps with self-examination

One of the easiest ways to identify suspicious signs is to follow the ABCDE rule, a self-examination method that evaluates five criteria: asymmetry, irregular edges, color variation, diameter greater than 6 millimeters, and evolution of the lesion.

“When you notice changes in these aspects, it is essential to consult a dermatologist”advises the specialist.

The fundamentals that save: daily prevention

Although common, skin cancer is preventable. Because sun exposure accumulated throughout life is one of the main risk factors, which makes daily protection essential.

Among the recommendations are:

• Use sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days;

• Hats, caps, clothing with UV protection and sunglasses;

• Avoid direct exposure to the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.;

• Reapply the protector every two hours;

• Don’t forget areas such as the ears, neck, back of the head, scalp and feet.

Mainly, people with fair skin, light eyes, family history or intense sun exposure should take special care and consult a dermatologist at least once a year.

Technology for early diagnosis

At HSPE, high-risk patients undergo detailed assessments using digital dermoscopy, a technology that allows skin structure to be analyzed with greater precision. “The examination increases the safety and speed of diagnosis,” emphasizes Bethânia Cavalli.

The message from the experts is clear: observing your skin, protecting yourself from the sun and consulting a doctor at the slightest sign of change are simple attitudes that can save lives.