Shape Magazine
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is cancer that forms in tissues of the skin. In 2008, there were an estimated 1 million new (nonmelanoma) cases of skin cancer diagnosed and under 1,000 deaths. There are several types of skin cancer:
• Melanoma forms in melanocytes (skin cells that make pigment)
• Basal cell carcinoma forms in basal cells (small, round cells in the base of the outer layer of skin)
• Squamous cell carcinoma forms in squamous cells (flat cells that form the surface of the skin)
• Neuroendocrine carcinoma forms in neuroendocrine cells (cells that release hormones in response to signals from the nervous system)
Most skin cancers form in older people on parts of the body exposed to the sun or in people who have weakened immune systems. Early prevention is key.
About the skin
The skin is the body's largest organ. It protects against heat, light, injury, and infection. It helps control body temperature. It stores water and fat. The skin also manufactures vitamin D.
The skin has two main layers:
• Epidermis. The epidermis is the top layer of the skin. It is mostly made of flat, or squamous, cells. Under the squamous cells in the deepest part of the epidermis are round cells called basal cells. Cells called melanocytes make the pigment (color) found in skin and are located in the lower part of the epidermis.
• Dermis. The dermis is under the epidermis. It contains blood vessels, lymph vessels, and glands. Some of these glands produce sweat, which helps cool the body. Other glands make sebum. Sebum is an oily substance that helps keep the skin from drying out. Sweat and sebum reach the surface of the skin through tiny openings called pores.
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