What is Skin Cancer

Skin Cancer is a malignant tumour or growth on the skin which becomes larger over time, and has the potential to spread to other parts of the body over time, in some cases causing death. It is the most common type of cancer, primarily caused by overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Skin cancer is especially prevalent in areas of the world where there is strong sunlight, primarily close to the equator. It is also more common in light skinned individuals over the age of 50, those who are ill or have a weakened immune system, and among those who smoke. Other risk factors include previous history of cancer, history of organ transplantation, smoking, lack of exercise, and overall poor health.

There are three main types of skin cancer:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It is also the least dangerous. The name is derived from the part of the skin that is affected...   read more ...

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of cancer. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma has the potential to spread to internal organs, and can be fatal if left untreated...   read more ...

Malignant Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is the least common, but most dangerous form of skin cancer that accounts for up to 75% of skin cancer fatalities...   read more...

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