Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that forms in the outer layer of the skin, usually due to long-term sun exposure.

• Chronic sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV rays, especially without protection, increases the risk of developing BCC.
• Fair skin: Individuals with fair skin, light-colored eyes, and blond or red hair are more susceptible to sun damage and, therefore, BCC.
• Family history of skin cancer: A family history of basal cell carcinoma or other skin cancers may increase the risk of developing the condition.
• Radiation therapy: Previous radiation treatments can damage the skin, making it more vulnerable to BCC.

• Individuals with fair skin and light hair: These individuals are more likely to get sunburned, increasing their risk of BCC.
• Older adults: BCC is more common in individuals over 50 due to cumulative sun exposure over their lifetime.
• People with a history of sunburns: A history of severe sunburns, especially during childhood or adolescence, raises the risk.
• Frequent tanning bed users: Those who use indoor tanning beds expose their skin to harmful UV radiation, which can lead to skin cancer.

• A pearly or waxy bump: The most common sign is a small bump that may be pink, white, or skin-colored. It may have visible blood vessels.
• A flat, scaly patch: Sometimes BCC can look like a flat, reddish patch of skin that may be itchy or irritated.
• A sore that doesn’t heal: A sore or lesion that doesn’t heal or keeps returning after healing may be a sign of BCC.
• A shiny or translucent area: A shiny, scar-like area that’s hard to the touch may be a less common form of BCC.

• Rapidly growing bump: If a bump on your skin changes in size quickly, it’s important to seek medical advice.
• Bleeding or crusting sore: A sore that bleeds, scabs, or crusts and doesn’t heal could be a sign of skin cancer.
• Persistent pain or discomfort: Any new growth that is painful or tender to the touch should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

• Physical examination: A healthcare provider will examine the suspicious area on the skin, noting its size, shape, color, and texture.
• Biopsy: If the doctor suspects basal cell carcinoma, a small sample of the affected skin will be taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
• Dermatoscopy: In some cases, a dermatoscope (a special magnifying device) is used to closely examine the skin for abnormal patterns.

• Surgical excision: The most common treatment for BCC, where the cancerous tissue is surgically removed, along with a small margin of healthy skin to ensure all the cancer is gone.
• Mohs surgery: A specialized surgical technique used for larger or recurring BCCs. Layers of skin are removed and examined under a microscope until no cancer cells remain, ensuring minimal healthy tissue is removed.
• Curettage and electrodessication: This involves scraping away the cancer cells and using electricity to destroy any remaining cancerous tissue. It’s typically used for smaller, superficial BCCs.
• Radiation therapy: For patients who cannot undergo surgery, radiation may be used to target and kill cancer cells.
• Topical treatments: For very small or early-stage BCCs, medicated creams or gels may be used to treat the cancer.

• A persistent sore or bump: If it doesn’t heal or keeps coming back, it could be a sign of BCC.
• A rapidly changing skin lesion: Any changes in size, color, or shape of a lesion should be evaluated.
• Painful or bleeding skin growths: These symptoms may indicate a more serious problem.
• A shiny or scar-like area: Unexplained shiny or scar-like areas on the skin may be a sign of basal cell carcinoma.

• Limit sun exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), when UV rays are strongest.
• Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing: Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds expose your skin to concentrated UV radiation, increasing your risk of skin cancer.
• Regular skin checks: Examine your skin regularly for any new or changing moles, spots, or lesions, and report anything suspicious to a healthcare provider.

• Seeking shade: Stay in the shade whenever possible, especially during the midday hours.
• Using UV-blocking window films: Consider adding protective films to car or home windows to block harmful UV rays.
• Stay vigilant after treatment: If you have had BCC in the past, continue regular skin checks and follow-up visits with your healthcare provider, as recurrence is possible.