There are 3 main types of skin cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC or sometimes called rodent ulcer)- accounts for 75% of skin cancer, Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)- makes up 20% of skin cancers, and Melanoma- represents 4% of skin cancers
Find out more about BCCs and SCCs here
BCCs, SCCs and melanoma cancers rarely spread so there is little risk to life. However, anyone showing signs of these cancers should always see their doctor. They are usually treated by surgery or radiotherapy. Melanomas are potentially much more serious as most of them can spread to other parts of the body and can therefore threaten life. However if detected early they can be treated successfully and 98% of patients diagnosed with Stage 1 melanoma will survive 5 years. We are focusing on melanomas on this page.
Although half of melanomas occur in people over 65, they can occur from adolescence onwards. They are getting commoner each year, possibly due to taking holidays in sunnier climes. Most melanomas will occur on skin exposed to sunlight but can occur on other parts of the body.
The biggest risk factor is UV radiation from sunlight and sun-beds. Some will arise in skin damaged by sunburn in early life.
The risk is also increased if you have:
To reduce your risk of melanoma:
Comprehensive information and advice about your skin type and sun awareness from the British Association of Dermatologists can be found here.
About 50% of melanomas arise from an existing mole, but the rest appear as a new mole or skin change.
See your GP if you have a mole that is:
These symptoms can be summarised visually by using the ABCDE tool.
There is no national screening programme for melanoma. This is because it is not very common, and screening would mean a lot of unnecessary checks. The cost of running a screening programme would, at present, outweigh the benefits. It is therefore really important to be aware of signs and symptoms, and go and see your doctor if you have any concerns.
For more information on skin cancer, here’s some useful sites:
British Association of Dermatologists
Finally, be careful of the sun and avoid sun-beds.
Keep an eye on your skin, particularly if you have a lot of moles.
See your GP if you have a mole that is changing. You will not be wasting their time.
Many people find it useful to speak to others who are going through the same things as them. There are a range of support groups in our area, some focusing on specific cancers and other more generally.
