Most of the people are only about melanoma as skin cancer but even though melanoma is the deadliest form of cancer, it isn’t the only type of skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma ( SCC) is a cancer of a type of epithelial cell that is the squamous cell. This cancer arises due to uncontrolled multiplication of epithelium cells.
Listed below are some of the facts of squamous cell carcinoma that you are surely unaware of

10 Things about Squamous Cell Carcinoma:

1) It is the second most common skin cancer

Squamous cell cancer is the second most common skin cancer. 7,00,000 thousand cases of squamous cell carcinoma are diagnosed every year.

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2) UV exposure increases your risk of getting this skin cancer

One of the main and common causes of squamous cell carcinoma is great levels of UV exposure over the lifetime. The harsh sun rays may not just tan your skin but also lead to skin cancer. It is always advisable to cover up before you head outside. Lather your skin with a good sunscreen too.

3) Tanning beds aren’t really a safe choice

Tanning buds can actually increase your risk for this skin cancer. People who tan are 2.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma than people who don’t. Bronzers and tanners are a greater choice if you want to get the tanned summer look.

4) Squamous cell carcinoma is more common in men

Squamous cell carcinoma is seen more in men than women. SCC is twice as common in men as compared to women.

5) Squamous cell carcinoma is most common on sun exposed skin

Even though SCC can be found on any body part but it is seen more on the areas that are constantly exposed to the skin such as face, lips and ears. One more common location for skin cancer is bald patches on the head.

6) What does SCC look like?

Squamous cell carcinoma normally looks like scaly raised bumps, warts, growth or open sores. They may crust over or bleed. If you notice any strange bumps or sores on your body, and if they do not heal in some time, then you must surely visit a doctor.

7) SCC can be deadly

Most of the people think that melanoma is the only type of deadly skin cancer. If not treated, then even squamous cell carcinoma can prove to be fatal. Every year almost 2500 deaths are caused due to this skin cancer.

8) It is highly treatable if caught early

Early detection is very vital. This cancer is extremely treatable and if diagnosed earlier, then you can quickly get cured.

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9) SCC can develop on scars and injuries

SCC develop mostly on the sites of previous injuries. They usually arise on burns, previous injuries and scars.

10) Older people are at a higher risk for SCC

SCC is hardly found in people below the age of fifty. They are much more common after the age of seventy.