Ultraviolet radiation from the sun works in a variety of ways to cause skin cancer. Each time the skin becomes tanned or burned from the sun, damage is done to skin cells.

Some of these damaged cells will die and some will repair themselves. Cells that cannot repair themselves will eventually become defective. Because UV radiation can lower the body’s immune system, these defective cells may not be destroyed and can therefore start to grow and produce a cancer tumour.

There are three major kinds of skin cancer:

 

	1) Melanoma: least common, but most serious usually starts as a flat, brown, freckle-like spot the edges are irregular/asymmetrical usually have 2 or more colours (grey, red, brown) most common on upper back in males and on the legs of females. Interestingly, melanoma may appear on areas of the body that have not been regularly exposed to the sun, such as the bottom of the feet.
	2) Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas: a) Basal Cell Carcinoma: More common, but not usually life-threatening, if treated early. Starts as raised, blister-like bump that will grow and eventually become crusted over. Usually the growth is skin coloured, but sometimes can be darker brown.
	b) Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Usually develops from Actinic/Solar Keratosis (see below).  Appears as areas of chronic scaling coloured pink and/or brown. Scales can be picked off, but will eventually reform.
	3) Actinic/Solar Keratosis: Most common pre-malignant (pre-cancerous) skin condition that can easily progress into cancer. Appears on skin that has suffered severe sun damage. Usually looks like pink/reddish scaly lesions.
	CAUTION: Consult your health care provider immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms.