Nichols Mohs and Skin Surgery » Skin Cancer Prevention

Skin Cancer Prevention

What are the types of skin cancer?

The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Most skin cancers in the United States are basal cell carcinomas. Although they grow larger over time, they do not usually metastasize, or move to different areas of the body. Squamous cell carcinomas have a higher rate of metastasis when located on the lip, ears, and nose, and need to be followed closely after surgery. If the cancers are not removed completely, they can slowly move to adjacent parts of the face and underlying structures. Basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas are often recognized in their early stages, and more easily cured. On the other hand, malignant melanoma may be life threatening if not treated early. It is considered the most serious skin cancer because it may quickly spread from the skin through the lymph nodes or blood to internal organs.

What causes skin cancer?

Like other forms of cancer, the cause of skin cancer is not entirely known. Exposure to sunlight is the most important factor associated with the development of skin cancers. This is why most skin cancers are found on the face and arms, the most sun-exposed parts of the body. Some cases of skin cancer may also be inherited along with your complexion. Fair-skinned people tend to develop skin cancer more frequently than dark-skinned people. However, skin cancers are not limited to a specific ethnic group.

How do I prevent more skin cancers?

It is estimated that more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. While most skin cancers have excellent cure rates if detected and treated early, prevention is still the best medicine. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (with UVA and UVB coverage) with a SPF value of 30 or greater daily. Be sure to liberally reapply after swimming or exercising. In addition to sunscreen, you should also wear a hat and sunprotective clothing.

How often should I have skin checks following surgery?

We suggest that you regularly monitor your surgery site, as you should all areas, for possible signs of skin cancer. Please continue to see your referring dermatologist or general physician for skin checks at least once a year.


		Skin Cancer Prevention What are the types of skin cancer? The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. Most skin cancers in the United States are basal cell carcinomas. Although they grow larger over time, they do not usually metastasize, or move to different areas of the body. Squamous cell carcinomas have a higher rate of metastasis when located on the lip, ears, and nose, and need to be followed closely after surgery. If the cancers are not removed completely, they can slowly move to adjacent parts of the face and underlying structures. Basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas are often recognized in their early stages, and more easily cured. On the other hand, malignant melanoma may be life threatening if not treated early. It is considered the most serious skin cancer because it may quickly spread from the skin through the lymph nodes or blood to internal organs. What causes skin cancer? Like other forms of cancer, the cause of skin cancer is not entirely known. Exposure to sunlight is the most important factor associated with the development of skin cancers. This is why most skin cancers are found on the face and arms, the most sun-exposed parts of the body. Some cases of skin cancer may also be inherited along with your complexion. Fair-skinned people tend to develop skin cancer more frequently than dark-skinned people. However, skin cancers are not limited to a specific ethnic group. How do I prevent more skin cancers? It is estimated that more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. While most skin cancers have excellent cure rates if detected and treated early, prevention is still the best medicine. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (with UVA and UVB coverage) with a SPF value of 30 or greater daily. Be sure to liberally reapply after swimming or exercising. In addition to sunscreen, you should also wear a hat and sunprotective clothing. How often should I have skin checks following surgery? We suggest that you regularly monitor your surgery site, as you should all areas, for possible signs of skin cancer. Please continue to see your referring dermatologist or general physician for skin checks at least once a year.