Basal Cell Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), accounting for about 75% of all skin cancers, usually arises on sun-exposed surfaces such as the nose, temple, or upper lip as a minute plaque or nodule.  Although BCC is slow-growing and very rarely metastasizes, it can be very aggressive, invading vital organs and causing significant disfigurement.

Treatment and Prevention

Because UV Exposure is the single most important risk factor for skin cancer, sun protection is the best way to decrease the risk.  Other suggestions include:

• Wear protective clothing, including a hat with 3 inch brim (Not a baseball-type cap!)
• Avoid exposure when the Sun's rays are most intense, especially between 10am and 3pm
• Use Sunscreens and Sunblocks, at least SPF 15
• Protect infants and children from overexposure and especially sunburn – it is estimated that lifetime risk of skin cancer could be reduced 80% with proper sun protection in childhood.

Prognosis

Almost 100% of cases are curable, even in relatively advanced stages, with surgery and/or radiation therapy.