Skin cancer develops in the cells of the epidermis. Cancer that develops in the basal cells of the epidermis is known as basal cell carcinoma. It occurs most often on the nose, but can also develop on other areas of the face, as well as the ears, neck, chest, back and scalp. Less commonly, it can develop on other areas of the skin.

There are numerous subtypes of basal cell carcinoma that can cause a variety of changes in the appearance of the skin. The disease most often appears as flat, pale areas or raised pink or red, translucent, waxy areas. The cancerous growth may bleed after minor injury. Patients experiencing these symptoms are encouraged to contact a dermatologist (a physician specializing in diseases of the skin) for examination of the suspected area. A biopsy of the area may be necessary to diagnose the disease.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that approximately 75 percent of all skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas. The disease most commonly occurs in people over the age of 40 and is much more common in men. Sun exposure is the leading cause of the basal cell carcinoma. Therefore, protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays is the best way to prevent the disease.