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A cancer diagnosis is still a terrifying event in anyone’s life It’s easy to lose all hope and just give up then and there, but it is important to keep in mind that the number of cancer survivors has increased over the last few years, and with proper treatment, it is possible to be one of them.

Cancers come in several shapes, sizes and types, and even skin cancer has several different forms.

Skin cancer can be either a carcinoma or a melanoma. As the name suggests, the melanoma is a form of skin cancer that begins in the melanocytes. It is more likely than the carcinomas to spread to other parts of the body, but fortunately is the rarest form of skin cancer. The most common forms of skin cancer are basal and squamous cell carcinomas.

So what are basal and squamous cells and melanocytes? The epidermis (top layer of the skin) is composed of three types of cells: Squamous cells – An upper layer of thin, flat cells. Basal cells – Round cells just under the squamous cells. Melanocytes – The makers of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour.

Factors that increase the risk of skin cancer include having fair skin, chronic inflammations or ulcers, scars or burns, having had radiation therapy and being exposed to a lot of either artificial (as in tanning booths) or natural UV rays. Remember that just because one of the risk factors applies to you, it doesn’t mean that you will certainly get skin cancer. Unfortunately, the reverse is also true and people who don’t show any of the risk factors may also get skin cancer.

One of the best ways of preventing skin cancer is by minimizing damage to the skin through overexposure to sunlight, so wearing sunscreen is recommended. Also, the sooner a cancer is caught and treated, the higher the chances of success. Skin cancer looks different depending on which type it is, so if anything suspicious is spotted, it’s a good idea to see a physician and get a professional opinion.

If diagnosed with skin cancer, there are several organizations out there that provide support and information. An excellent source of information is the National Cancer Institute, which has a comprehensive and clear website, and reliable professionals available to assist by telephone, email, post or chat.