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Most cases of skin cancer in Canada are either basal or squamous cell carcinomas. These skin cancers tend to develop later in life on areas of skin that have been exposed repeatedly to the sun, such as the face, neck, or hands. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas progress slowly and rarely cause death because they usually do not spread to other parts of the body. These cancers are easily removed by surgery. Malignant melanomas are different. They account for about 5% of all skin cancers, and are the type most likely to be fatal. Unlike other skin cancers, they occur earlier in life and progress rapidly. They may develop on almost any part of the body. The occurrence of skin cancer has been increasing in Canada at a fairly constant rate over the past 30 years. In 2005, there were roughly 78,000 new cases of basal and squamous cell carcinomas reported in Canada , and about 4,400 new cases of malignant melanomas. Your best defense against skin cancer is to have routine checks with your primary care provider. Medpoint now offers a skin cancer clinic. Dr. Geoff Dilworth, Dermatologist, along with the Medpoint team will work together to make sure that any suspect moles that you are concerned about are thoroughly examined. This service is covered entirely by OHIP. Access to see Dr. Dilworth is with a referral from your family doctor or through Medpoint's executive health services and or Same Day clinic. Note: the general physician will only do a referral if they feel that it is medically indicated to see a Dermatologist. To further assist is screening for potential changes in your moles or skin surface consider the MEDPOINT MOLE MAPPING link program. |
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma.