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Skin Cancer is the Most Common Cancer in the United States


The Skin Care Foundation reports that the most common cancer in the US is of the skin and strikes one in five people by age 70. The good news is 99 percent of all cases are curable if they are diagnosed and treated early enough. However, to spot skin cancer, we need to look for it, which is why doctors recommend adults to do a routine skin check once a month and have a skin check with a dermatologist at least once a year.

Since we are the best ones to notice any changes in our skin, it helps to know what to look for. Experts explain skin cancers appear in many shapes and sizes, and warning signs are associated with the different types of skin cancers. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (also called basal cell skin cancer) is the most common type of skin cancer accounting for 8 out of 10 cases. Basal cell cancer starts in the basal cell layer (the lower part of the epidermis).

The Mayo Clinic explains that squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) develops in the squamous cells that make up the middle and outer layers of the skin. While not life-threatening, it can be aggressive and typically occurs on sun-exposed skin including the scalp, the backs the hands, ears or lips, but can also occur on any part of the body.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer and generally develops anywhere in the body that has been exposed to UV light. Additionally, it may be found in spots not typically exposed to sunlight such as the bottom of the feet. The Mayo Clinic says melanoma can start as a change in an existing mole or a development of a new pigmented or unusual-looking growth on the skin.

It is important to avoid UV light from the sun or tanning beds as it is one of the top culprits to damaging and aging the skin as well as causing skin cancer. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if you have a sore or scab that doesn't heal in about two months or a flat patch of scaly skin that doesn’t go away.

MorningStar at River Oaks is a vibrant 55+ community offering assisted living suites in a choice of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. Onsite amenities include a salon, clubroom, bistro, fitness center, theater/chapel, courtyards and sky terrace. In addition, we provide experienced, compassionate memory care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Houston.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston has to offer.
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