Jonas Brothers fame singer Kevin Jonas recently revealed via his social media page that he got a 'basal cell carcinoma' removed from his forehead. Pointing to a tiny mole on his head, he said, "Yes, that's an actual little skin cancer guy that has started to grow. And now I have to get it removed. Make sure to get those moles checked." Interestingly, basal cell carcinoma aka BCC is a common type of skin cancer that appears as a tiny, shiny bump on the skin. Blood vessels will also be visible within it. The slow-growing cancer can cause disfigurement if left untreated. It's more common in fair-skinned people as compared to brown-skinned, as melanin in brown skin offers better protection from ultraviolet radiation that causes this cancer. However, it doesn't mean brown-skinned people are immune to it.
What causes it?
Long-term exposure to sunlight in childhood and during adolescence, tanning beds and lamps that emit UV radiation, a family history of skin cancer and weak immune systems can contribute towards someone getting the disease. At the same time, those who haven't had any such factors in life have also developed the disease. Applying a high SPF (sun protection factor) sunscreen on your face, neck, hands and ears before going outside can offer a certain amount of protection against it. Regular self-examinations on our skin for any changes can also help spot any possible irregularities.
