Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) are now responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths, accounting for over three-quarters of all cases in 2020. Surprisingly, the more serious type of skin cancer, melanoma, caused fewer fatalities. This alarming trend suggests that NMSCs are often underreported, meaning the actual impact may be higher than estimated.
Early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing the spread and further development of skin cancer. Being the most common type of cancer in both the US and the UK, skin cancer is expected to affect one in five individuals during their lifetime. A recent study also revealed a high incidence of skin cancer in fair-skinned and elderly populations across several countries. This shows that even countries with a significant proportion of people with darker features are not immune to the risk of death from skin cancer.
In 2020, there were nearly 1.2 million reported cases of NMSC worldwide, compared to 324,635 cases of melanoma. The good news is that NMSCs are less likely to spread to other body parts and can be treated more easily than melanoma. However, specific groups at higher risk of skin cancer, such as outdoor workers, organ transplant recipients, and individuals with xeroderma pigmentosum, need to be more cautious.
Interestingly, having more dermatologists per capita did not significantly reduce mortality rates related to skin cancer. This suggests the need for exploring other strategies and approaches to combat the disease. Dermatologists utilize the ABCDEs method when diagnosing melanoma, which stands for asymmetry, border, color, diameter, and evolving. This approach helps in identifying potential signs of the disease and prompts early intervention.
Non-melanoma skin cancers present themselves in different ways. Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a waxy lump or a small, smooth, shiny, or pale growth on sun-exposed areas of the body. On the other hand, squamous cell carcinoma manifests as a red, scaly patch of skin that can sometimes bleed or appear as a raised scar.
To combat the rising incidence and impact of NMSCs, education campaigns are needed to increase awareness of the associated risks and promote early detection and treatment. These efforts should focus on high-risk populations as well as individuals with darker skin tones. The findings were presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology (EADV) Congress, reinforcing the importance of addressing this pressing global health issue. Emphasizing the significance of early detection, education, and prevention is crucial in reducing the burden of skin cancer and saving lives.
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