A new episode of Embarrassing Bodies is on TV tonight (July 7), and will see the doctors return as season nine of the popular medical reality show continues.
The doctors hope to destigmatise “embarrassing” medical conditions and raise health awareness.
In tonight’s episode, Dr Jane will treat a mum with leg pain and Dr Tosin will help a man with a skin condition.
Meanwhile, Dr Anand meets a patient whose skin cancer left her face two different shades.
As Dr Anand explores the effect that skin cancer had on his patient, here’s some of the other symptoms that he warns people to keep an eye out for.
What types of skin cancers are there?
According to the NHS, skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world.
The types of skin cancer are split into two categories - non-melanoma and melanoma.
Non-melanoma skin cancer includes two main types called basal cell skin cancer and squamous cell skin cancer.
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that often develops from a mole.
Around 147,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer every year while around 16,700 more are diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer.
Melanoma skin cancer is generally more dangerous because it has a tendency to spread, but all types of skin cancer can be dangerous and it’s important to know the symptoms to look for.
What are the symptoms of skin cancer?
Embarrassing Bodies’ Dr Anand, who qualified in Medicine in 2000 from Kings College London, gave some advice on some of the key skin cancer symptoms to look out for.
He told The Express: "The advice below is general guidance and shouldn’t be taken as complete medical advice.
"If you have a symptom or issue that persists or you’re worried about, it’s always best to consult your GP as soon as you’re able to and get the medical advice tailored to your issue.”
Dr Anand revealed: "There are many symptoms we tend to worry about but some include:
- unexpected weight loss
- a change in bowel habit like new and persistent diarrhoea
- night sweats
- coughing up blood
- a new lump
He warned: “If you have a persistent new symptom that you’re concerned about, have it checked out by your GP."
