Rosie O'Donnell opens up about skin cancer diagnosis after noticing suspicious bump near her eye. What is basal cell carcinoma?
The 62-year-old actor and comedian is one of the many celebrities to share their skin cancer diagnosis with fans.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.
Rosie O'Donnell is on the mend after having skin cancer removed. On Tuesday, the 62-year-old took to Instagram to urge followers to have skin checked after a suspicious bump was removed from her nose.
"Had this bump near my eye,” she wrote. “Went to the dermatologist when it started to scab. Basal cell skin cancer — all removed and fine. Get checked.”
In the comments, fans shared their relief that the bump was discovered — and removed.
"Glad you were proactive about it and also informing others," one follower wrote.
"I’m glad you got checked and you took time to take care of yourself! I have to make my appointment," someone said.
"So glad you got checked and are OK" another commented. "That must've been scary waiting to find out."
O'Donnell is the latest star to share their experience with skin cancer. Christie Brinkley, Kevin Jonas and Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, have all spoken publicly on the importance of having moles and bumps regularly checked by a dermatologist.
But what is basal cell carcinoma — and what does it look like? Keep reading to learn more.
What is basal cell carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) accounts for approximately 75 to 80 per cent of skin cancers. It begins in basal cells, which are located on the bottom of the epidermis and divide to form new skin cells. BCC is a slow-growing, non-melanoma form of skin cancer that usually presents on areas of the body often exposed to the sun, like the head, neck, face and arms. When detected early, BCC has a high-survival rate and is considered treatable. However, when left untreated, BCC can spread to nearby areas of the body, such as the cartilage and skin.
What does basal cell carcinoma look like?
While melanoma typically begins as dark or asymmetrical moles, BCC often looks like a sore that won't heal. BCC can appear as sores that bleed or won't heal, raised or scaly red patches, a growth that itches, pale white or yellow flat areas that look like scars, or a pink growth with raised edges. They can also look like translucent or skin-coloured bump or a black, blue or brown lesion with a translucent border.
How do you treat basal cell carcinoma?
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy and non-surgical treatments like cryotherapy are a few of the treatment options for BCC depending on the stage of cancer.
Even with treatment, it's possible for BCC to reoccur, and it does increase your risk of developing other skin cancers.
Who is at risk for basal cell carcinoma?
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but there are certain factors that can increase your risk of developing basal cell carcinoma.
chronic sun exposure without protective clothing or sunscreen
indoor tanning
family history of skin cancer
light coloured skin, hair and eyes
weakened immune system
previous radiation therapy
hereditary conditions that make you vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation
What are the other types of skin cancer?
Although it's the most common, BCC is not the only form of skin cancer. Although there are rare forms of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma are the second and third most common forms of skin cancers. Skin cancer symptoms vary by type — and being aware of the signs and symptoms can help ensure it's detected early.
What is squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous cells are flat cells found in the tissue of the surface of the skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, SCC typically occurs on sun-exposed skin like the scalp, hands, ears and lips — however it can occur anywhere on the body, including the inside of the mouth and genitals.
Symptoms of SCC can include a sore that doesn’t heal or returns after healing, raised lumps or “nodules” on the skin that may crust or bleed easily. It can also take the form of growths that look like a wart that may itch.
What is melanoma?
According to Health Canada, melanoma is the least common but "most serious" form of skin cancer. Melanoma often begins as an abnormal mole that may change shape or colour.
The acronym ABCDE can help you know the signs and symptoms of skin cancer:
A for asymmetrical. Moles could be cancerous if one side of the mole looks doesn't match the other. The mole might not be circular, but have a jagged edge.
B for border. An uneven, jagged or blurry border of the mole could be cause for concern.
C for colour. If a mole has different colours through out (tan, brown or black) or features other colours like blue, grey, red, pink or white, ask your doctor for an exam or biopsy.
D for diameter. If your mole is larger than 1/4 inch in size, it should be examined by a specialist.
E for evolving. If you notice the shape, size or colour of your mole change, or it suddenly becomes itchy or burns, visit your healthcare provider for an exam.
How do you protect yourself against skin cancer?
Wearing sunscreen that's SPF 30 or higher year round, along with protective clothing like hats, sunglasses and long sleeve clothing in light fabric, are some of the best ways to protect yourself against skin cancer. Other ways to protect yourself are to avoid tanning and limit sun exposure when the sun is at its strongest, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Moreover, be sure to do body checks for any moles or spots that look suspicious or have changed in appearance. Visit a dermatologist or your health-care provider if there are any areas that may cause concern.
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