lucky29
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 Posted: 04/22/08 - 05:49 Post subject: Skin Cancers On The Scalp and Neck More Meadly Than Cancers |
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People seem to forget to protect their heads and necks when exposing themselves to the sun like they do with other parts of the body. A new study states that these parts need proper care too as they are at risk of melanoma too that appear to be twice as deadlier that cancers on other parts of the skin such as face, ears, arms, legs, hands and feet.
Although survival rates from skin cancer are relatively high, there appear to be a difference between cancers found on scalp and neck and those found elsewhere. The five-year survival rate for patients with scalp or neck cancer was 83% in comparison to 92% for those with melanomas on the face and ears and on the extremities.
The study results showed additional differences between the cancer locations. Cancers on the scalp and neck appeared to be thicker and were more likely to be ulcerated than cancers at other sites and lymph nodes to be more often affected in patients with scalp and neck cancers than in the other skin cancer groups.
However, even with these factors being accounted, there were a poorer survival rates overall - leading to conclusion that there were biological differences between the cancers.
While only 6% of melanomas are found on the scalp or neck, they account for 10% of melanoma deaths. Patients with skin cancers in this area tended to be slightly older - 59 in comparison to an average of 55.
The British Skin Foundation reports that it is necessary to cover up well when exposing the body to intense sunshine. Neck and scalp should not be ignored.
They also highlight the need to check all areas of the skin regularly for any unusual changes because the disease may appear anywhere on the body. The sooner spotted, the better chances of survival. |
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