Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer worldwide, affecting millions annually. According to the World Health Organization, about 330,000 new melanoma cases were reported in 2022, resulting in nearly 60,000 deaths. Men tend to be more affected than women in most regions. A Harvard-trained dermatologist warns that seemingly harmless skin spots or pimples may actually indicate cancer.
Dr. Daniel Sugai advises that any pimple persisting for more than a month should prompt a visit to a dermatologist. Speaking on TikTok, he said, “If you have a pimple that won’t go away in four weeks, please see your dermatologist.”
Another warning sign is spots that bleed frequently. “Patients often report that after washing their face, a certain spot bleeds repeatedly, going through a cycle of bleeding and scabbing,” Dr. Sugai, based in Seattle, explained. “If you notice a spot that won’t fully heal or is fragile even with gentle trauma like face washing, it’s important to consult your dermatologist.”
These symptoms may indicate basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common type of skin cancer, affecting approximately 3.6 million Americans annually, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
BCC originates in basal cells, responsible for generating new skin cells as older ones die, explains the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Sugai treats and diagnoses these cases surgically on a daily basis.
BCC tumors often develop “tree-like blood vessels” that make them prone to bleeding. They can appear as a non-healing pimple, shiny skin-colored bumps, white or waxy lesions, flat scaly patches, or darkly pigmented spots.
In patients with darker skin tones, BCC often presents as pigmented lesions that are hyperpigmented with some redness, which can eventually erode and bleed easily.
Ignoring unusual skin changes can be dangerous; early detection is crucial and can save lives.
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