Basal-Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Last week, 7/7, I had a Basal-Cell Carcinoma (BCC) spot removed.

I did not know much about skin cancer before this experience so I will share a little bit of info with you. Basal-Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form a skin cancer and rates have been on the rise; naturally the researcher in me had to learn more.

I realized there is not much data on BCC, my assumption is because the survival rate, when caught early, is extremely high. Most of the research I read are studies done in conjunction with other forms of skin cancer.

High level takeaway(s)-

• It is genetic (4).
• It is slow growing/spreading (3).
• Exposure to UV light increases risk.
• Poor diet increases risk (5).
• Stress increases risk (2).

Personal journey-

The spot (on my leg) I had removed appeared last year (2022), after the most stressful two (2) years I have experienced (I would venture to say that is true for most); however, the six (6) months leading up to the appearance of the spot were exceptionally difficult.

During the before mentioned time period I:

• consumed the most alcohol (on a consistent basis).
• ate the most take out.
• worked out the least.
• was exposed to the most stress.
• failed to consistently consume my supplements.

I do not believe in coincidences.

I believe my body just could not fight all the toxins I was intentionally consuming (in addition to everyday toxins), stress, and the damaged cells.

Where do I go from here?

I will:

• ensure I consume B3 daily for cell rejuvenation (1).
• return to intermittent fasting.
• focus on nutrients, not calories.
• move my body daily, even if it is just a walk.
• develop better stress coping strategies. 

Direct links to the research are on my blog (are listed in the comments), do with this info what you will. 🩷J

References

(1) Damian, D., Yu, P. (2015). Oral nicotinamide prevents common skin cancers in high-risk patients, reduces cost. American Health & Drug Benefits (special issue), 13-14.

(2) Fagundes, C., Glaser, R., et al., (2012). Basal cell carcinoma stressful life events and the tumor environment. Archives of General Psychiatry, 69(6), 618-626. doi: 10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2011.1535

(3) Fijalkowska, M., Bonczar, M., et al., (2023). Growth rate of basal cell carcinoma: a meta-analysis and systematic review. Postepy Dermal Alegrol, 40(2), 220-224. doi: 10.5114/ada.2023.124795

(4) Killgour, J., Jia, J., Sarin, K. (2021). Review of the molecular genetics of basal cell carcinoma; inherited susceptibility, somatic mutations, and targeted therapeutics. Cancers (Basel), 13(15), 3870. doi: 10.3390/cancers13153870

(5) Park, M., Li, W., et al., (2018). Fat intake and risk of skin cancer in US adults. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev, 27(7), 776-782. doi: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-17-0782