Kevin Jonas diagnosed with skin cancer, shares video on instagram

Singer-songwriter and Priyanka Chopra's brother-in-law Kevin Jonas has shared that he has been diagnosed with skin cancer. He is known for his works with the Jonas Brothers. In the video, Jonas revealed that he underwent a surgery to remove  a malignant mole on his forehead. 

He also raised awareness to the importance of early skin cancer detection and treatment. The news about his cancer and the concerned treatment was informed through his social media handle.

In the video, he said that he is getting a basal cell carcinoma removed from his head. The video was shared with the caption, ‘Friendly reminder to get your moles checked’.

Recently, Australian actor Hugh Jackman also revealed that he is suffering from basal cell carcinoma.

What is basal cell carcinoma?

It is a type of skin cancer. A basal cell is a type of cell that produces new skin cells as old ones die. They often appear as a small swelling on the skin. Basal cell carcinoma is more likely to affect areas like the head and neck that are exposed to direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation increases the risk of disease. Changes in the DNA of the basal cells of the skin lead to cancer.

Symptoms

Symptoms are manifested by changes in the skin. Be careful if there is swelling of the skin or a wound that has not healed for a long time. Swelling can also appear pink or pearly white in color. In dark skinned people it will be brown or glossy black. Bleeding can sometimes be seen from the swelling. Black, brown and blue lesions should be noted.

Risks

Prolonged exposure to the sun increases the risk of the disease. White skinned people are more prone to this cancer. Those who have previously had basal cell carcinoma are at risk of recurrence. Basal cell cancer can occur if a family member has a history of skin cancer. People who take medications that suppress the immune system are also at risk of this cancer. People who interact with the chemical arsenic are also at risk. And some rare genetic diseases increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma.

The challenge is that even if the disease is treated and cured, it may come back frequently and once basal cell carcinoma is present, there is a risk of other skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma. Very rarely, basal cell cancer spreads to other parts of the body, such as the bones and lungs.

Prevention

• Avoid extreme sun exposure as much as possible. Try to adjust your working hours accordingly.
• Make it a habit to apply sunscreen cream when going out. Be sure to choose sunscreens with at least SPF30. Make sure to reapply them every two hours.
• Care should also be taken in choosing clothing to avoid overexposure to the sun. Clothes should be worn in such a way that the limbs and other parts are covered so as not to be exposed to excessive sunlight.
• Seek professional advice as soon as you notice any unusual symptoms or changes in your skin.