What it means
The most common kind of cancer. The three main types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are common and usually curable when found early, and melanoma, which starts in the pigment cells and is more likely to spread. Most skin cancer is linked to ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning beds, and fair skin, many moles, sunburns and a family history raise the risk.
For the nurse
Look at the whole skin during assessments and report a mole or spot that is new or changing. Teach the ABCDEs of a worrying mole (Asymmetry, irregular Border, more than one Color, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, Evolving) and sun protection: shade, clothing, sunscreen and no tanning beds.
Remember it
ABCDE: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolving.
At a glance
| Spanish | cáncer de piel |
|---|---|
| Also written | skin cancers |