About Skin Cancer

The incidence of skin cancer has increased dramatically over the past two decades, mainly because of cumulative exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Skin cancer falls into two broad areas: non-melanoma skin cancer (basal-cell cancer and squamous-cell cancer), and melanoma.

The most common skin cancers are basal-cell and squamous-cell carcinomas. These are non-melanoma skin cancers that are slow growing, easily treated and rarely lead to death. When neglected, non-melanoma skin cancers can grow large enough to become disfiguring and can spread. Malignant melanoma is less common, but more dangerous. The incidence of melanoma has increased dramatically over the past decade, but survival rates also have improved due to early detection.

Like most cancers, the risk of melanoma increases with age. People of all ages, however, have some risk of melanoma.

Remember, if in doubt, book a consultation. Most skin cancer is curable if caught early.

Types of skin cancer:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma
• Dysplastic Naevi
• Freckles and Moles
• Melanoma
• Solar Keratosis
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma

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