Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with an estimated 10.5 lakh new cases in 2022. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an estimated 3.3 lakh new cases of melanoma were diagnosed globally, and almost 60,000 people died from the disease the same year.
Given the alarming numbers, it is crucial to educate ourselves about the disease and understand the kind of impact it can have on our body. The skin, being the largest organ in the body, is likely to develop cancerous cells anywhere. While unusual moles or abnormal growths on the face, neck, arms, or hands are more noticeable, it is equally important to keep a check on often-overlooked areas of the body. Some of these are listed below:
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Lips
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Skin cancer can occur on the lip. These are mostly squamous cell carcinomas, which develop in the skin's outer layers and can also occur in the mouth, throat, sinuses, and nose. According to WebMD, the lower lip is about 12 times more likely to get skin cancer than the upper lip. Common risk factors include sun exposure and tobacco use. It is advised that people watch out for any sore or lump on the lip that doesn't heal, pain, tingling, or numbness, and bleeding.
Eyelids
Another unexpected area to develop skin cancer is eyelids—the most common type being basal cell carcinoma (BCC). These are usually caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or due to gene mutations in the basal cells. The good news is that eyelid cancers are treatable and can be surgically removed. It can become serious if the cancer starts in the squamous cells, which are closer to the surface of the skin, and therefore, can grow more quickly and spread to nearby tissues.
Soles Of Feet
The soles of your feet can also be a potential area for skin cancer to develop. It can occur in the form of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or malignant melanoma. Malignant melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer that can affect the feet. Common symptoms include a new or changing mole, a pinkish-red spot of growth, a rapidly growing mass, or a non-healing sore that looks like a diabetic ulcer.
Under Nails
It may come as a surprise to you, but skin cancer can also occur under the nail, also called subungual melanoma or nail unit melanoma. While rare, this type of skin cancer can be serious. Some of the common signs include irregular pigmentation, thickening, splitting of the nails, pain and inflammation, and swelling around the nails.
Also Read: How To Perform A Skin Self-Exam: Dermatologist Shares What's Normal And What To Watch Out For
Scalp
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When you have skin cancer on your head or scalp, it is most commonly basal cell carcinoma. You can identify it from a new growth, a change in an existing mole, or a sore that does not heal. Again, sun exposure is the leading cause of this type of skin cancer. Other risk factors include light skin, hair, and eyes; a family history of skin cancer; and age.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is a sneaky disease that can appear anywhere in the body, even in the most overlooked areas. These include your lips, eyelids, scalp, soles of the feet, and under nails. It is therefore extremely important to be aware of your own body and address any new and unusual skin changes. Most importantly, protect your skin from any damage, particularly damage caused by sunlight exposure and UV radiation. Wear sunscreen regularly and avoid direct skin contact with the sun.