When most people hear the words “skin cancer,” they often think of it as one condition. In reality, there are several types of skin cancer, and understanding their differences can help you protect your health and catch problems early.
In the Iowa Great Lakes, where outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and golfing are a way of life, sun exposure is part of our culture. Also, Dickinson County has the highest rate of melanoma skin cancer among all 99 counties in Iowa. That makes skin cancer awareness especially important for our community.
Skin cancer generally falls into three main categories:
- Melanoma (The Most Serious)
Melanoma develops in melanocytes, which are the cells that give your skin its pigment.
“While it is less common than other skin cancers, it is the most dangerous because it can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not caught early,” said Dakota Dermatology Physician Assistant Courtney Bolluyt.
Key facts about melanoma:
- Can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new spot
- Often looks irregular in shape or color
- May change over time
- Has a higher risk of spreading (metastasis)
Early detection is critical. When caught early, melanoma is highly treatable.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (Most Common)
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently diagnosed skin cancer. It develops in the basal cells at the bottom of the epidermis.
What to look for:
- Pearly or pink bumps
- Flat, flesh-colored lesions
- Slow-growing and rarely spreads beyond the skin
While BCC is usually not life-threatening, it still requires treatment to prevent tissue damage.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) forms in the flat cells near the surface of the skin.
Common signs:
- Firm, red nodules
- Scaly patches that may crust or bleed
- Can grow deeper into the skin if untreated
SCC is more aggressive than BCC but less dangerous than melanoma when caught early. According to Bolluyt, SCC has potential to metastasize.
Melanoma accounts for a smaller percentage of skin cancer cases, but it causes the majority of skin cancer deaths. That’s why education, prevention, and early detection are so important.
For residents of Northwest Iowa, seasonal sun exposure, even during cooler months, can increase risk over time. Reflective surfaces like water can intensify UV exposure without you realizing it.
Watch for the ABCDE rule when examining moles:
- A – Asymmetry
- B – Border irregularity
- C – Color variation
- D – Diameter (larger than a pencil eraser)
- E – Evolving (changing over time)
If you notice any of these features, it’s time to schedule a skin evaluation. However, annual skin checks with a dermatologist or advanced practice practitioner such as a Nurse Practitioner or Physician’s Assistant are also key to finding skin cancer early.
“If you have a history of sun exposure or have multiple moles, it is important to have a full skin exam, where we evaluate through a dermatoscope, measure, monitor, and biopsy suspicious lesions if needed,” said Bolluyt.
You don’t have to give up time outdoors to reduce your risk. Small habits make a big difference:
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Reapply every 2 hours, especially on the water
- Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing
- Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 am – 4 pm)
- Avoid tanning beds
Most importantly, make annual skin checks with a dermatology professional and prevention steps a habit. They may just save your life.
