We asked Barry Powell, surgeon and skin cancer expert, what he would want to know about non-melanoma skin cancer.
I know that sunlight causes skin cancer, but what are the other risk factors?
The majority of basal (bay-sal) and squamous (sqway-mouse) skin cancers are caused by exposure to sunlight. However, other risk factors can include:
- People with a weakened immune system: if you've had a kidney, heart or lung transplant and are taking drugs to reduce chances of rejection, there is a higher chance that you could develop skin cancer, particularly squamous skin cancer.
- Family history: it is rare, but a small number of families are more susceptible to skin cancer.
- Radiation: if you’ve been exposed to radiation through your work, or have had radiotherapy.
- Chronic burns or scars: these can increase the risk from over-exposure to sunlight and may increase the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer.
- Regular use of sunbeds
Who’s most at risk?
In the UK, 80% of cases occur in people over the age of 60. In hotter countries, however, it isn’t unusual to see people in their 20s or 30s with skin cancer.
Can skin cancer spread?
Basal skin cancer is common, slow-growing, and rarely spreads to another part of the body. If left, it can eat into the surrounding skin but it won’t cause death.
Squamous skin cancers can spread. Eight to 10% of cases can spread to the lymph system and into the bloodstream, which can then cause secondary cancers.
How long will I have to wait for the results of a biopsy?
The shortest time is two to three days, although this is quick. It's normal to wait one working week.
How will I be treated?
Most skin cancers are treated with minor surgery where, under local anaesthetic, the cancer is simply cut out.
Should I be careful in the sun?
Yes. You should cover up to avoid over-exposure and sunburn, and you should always wear a sun cream.
What are the chances of skin cancer returning?
If you've had one skin cancer, there is a 40 to 50% chance that you will develop others in your lifetime.
