Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of nonmelanoma skin cancer which may develop in normal skin or in injured and inflamed skin. As most skin cancers are a consequence of the skin being overexposed to sunlight or other ultraviolet radiation, squamous cell carcinoma makes no exception. This is the main cause of squamous cell carcinoma, although this type of cancer has also been linked to Human papilloma virus. Squamous cell carcinoma usually occurs on portions of the body which are frequently exposed to UV radiation, such as the face, necks, ears, hands, and arms.

While we are all exposed to sunlight, there are some people who are more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma than others. This is because there are several risk factors which influence the development of squamous cell carcinoma. These factors often have to do with one’s physical appearance, as those who have light-colored skin, blond or red hair, or green or blue eyes are more at risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma. Individuals who work in the outdoors are also facing the risk of dealing with squamous cell carcinoma, since they are exposed to the Sun on a daily basis, for long periods of time. If a person suffered numerous severe sunburns earlier in life, chances are that s/he will develop squamous cell carcinoma, as well. Besides these risk factors, older age and chemical exposure should also be considered. Also, a person who has had many x-rays may develop squamous cell carcinoma at one point.

Regarding the squamous cell carcinoma symptoms, the worst part is that people usually ignore them or simply do not notice them. As squamous cell carcinoma tends to occur on the face, neck, ears, and hands, these areas are the first ones to be checked. The main squamous cell carcinoma symptom consists of a growing lump that has a scaly, rough surface, and flat reddish patches. In its earliest form, this lump is usually crusted and the patch is larger than 1 inch. Besides this obvious symptom, a sore that does not seem to heal for a longer period of time may also indicate squamous cell carcinoma. Also, any visible change in an existing mole, wart or skin lesion could be linked to squamous cell carcinoma.

Should you experience any of these squamous cell carcinoma symptoms, a visit to the doctor as soon as possible is advisable. This is because if caught early, squamous cell carcinoma can be harmless, considering that it will not cause any further problems. If, on the contrary, squamous cell carcinoma is not detected on time, it can grow in size and spread to other body parts, thus causing serious complications and even fatal consequences. If you fall into any of the risk categories, a regular skin examination is the best prevention measure you could take in order to avoid squamous cell carcinoma from developing. And do not forget to keep out of the sunlight and to use high-quality sunscreens whenever you go outside.