A quick trip to the dermatologist and one biopsy later confirmed that it was basal cell carcinoma. It was a non-spreading, non-dangerous spot of skin cancer. After a little research, I found that you are more likely to get basal cell skin cancer if you have:
- Light-colored or freckled skin
- Blue, green, or grey eyes
- Blond or red hair
- Overexposure to x-rays or other forms of radiation
- Many moles
- Close relatives who have or had skin cancer
- Many severe sunburns early in life
- Long-term daily sun exposure (such as the sun exposure people who work outside receive)
Note that us Zirkers have many (almost all) of the risk factors. This week I had the spot surgically removed and am currently sporting a large bandage and several stitches on the side of my neck. So. Don't forget to wear your sunscreen. And a hat. And get any strange spots looked at by your friendly local dermatologist.
*Since we're posting pictures of nasty injuries this week, I thought about putting up a photo of the fresh stitches. If you really want a grandpa-esque picture, I'll send you one.
*Since we're posting pictures of nasty injuries this week, I thought about putting up a photo of the fresh stitches. If you really want a grandpa-esque picture, I'll send you one.
