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Is skin cancer serious?

Skin cancer can spread throughout the body and be life-threatening, if it is not identified and treated in the early stages.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancers are a group of cancers that originate from abnormal skin cells. The most common types of skin cancers are melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

The symptoms vary according to the type of skin cancer. Melanoma is distinguished from regular moles by the irregular border of the moles, the different coloration present, large diameter and evolving shape and size. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas …

What causes skin cancer?

Skin cancer is caused by damage to the DNA of skin cells, which results from exposure to UV radiation.

Who gets skin cancer?

Anyone can get skin cancer, but the risk increases with age and if you sunbake or use tanning beds.

How is skin cancer diagnosed?

The only way to diagnose cancer is with a tissue biopsy. A pathologist will examine the biopsy under a microscope to see if the cells are cancerous.

How is skin cancer treated?

How skin cancer is treated depends on the type, size and location of the cancer. Commonly, surgery is performed.

Can skin cancer be cured?

Most cases of basal and squamous cell carcinoma can be cured. Melanomas are less predictable, and can recur many years after treatment.

Can skin cancer be prevented?

Cancer cannot be completely prevented, but you can greatly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer by not tanning and using appropriate sun protection.

Will skin cancer keep coming back?

Skin cancer can return, but the chances of it returning depend on the type of skin cancer you have.

Related topics

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Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of cancer that starts in the melanocyte cells of the skin, usually due to damage from UV light (sunlight). A new or changing mole may be a sign of a potential melanoma. Melanoma cells can spread to other parts of the body.…
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Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is cancer that starts in the skin’s basal cells, usually due to damage from UV light (sunlight). BCC often looks like a raised, pearly lump or sore, but can form deep ulcers as it enlarges. It rarely spreads in the body.…
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Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the name for cancers that arise in lung tissue. Abnormal cells can interfere with lung function and spread to other parts of the body. Smoking is a major risk factor, although non-smokers can also develop lung cancer.…
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Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. Abnormal cells can form tumours in the ovaries and spread to other parts of the body.…
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Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is cancer that starts in the skin’s squamous cells due to damage from UV light (sunlight). SCC often appears like a red patch or sore. It can spread to other parts of the body, although this is rare.…
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Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the kidneys, organs that produce urine (to remove waste products from blood) and regulate blood pressure. Abnormal cells can form a tumour, affecting urination, and can spread through the body.…

About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 22 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Votes: 1121 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Melanoma

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