Skin Cancer (Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinoma)

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancer, both arising from sun-damaged skin cells. They grow more slowly and are far less likely to spread than melanoma, and are highly curable when treated early.

• Basal cell carcinoma: a pearly or waxy bump, a flat, flesh-coloured or brown scar-like lesion, or a sore that bleeds, crusts, and does not heal
• Squamous cell carcinoma: a firm, red nodule, or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface, which can sometimes be tender
• Both most commonly occur on sun-exposed skin, such as the face, ears, neck, hands, and scalp
• Any new or changing skin lesion, or a sore that does not heal within a few weeks, warrants assessment

• Results from cumulative sun (ultraviolet) exposure damaging skin cells over years, making these cancers most common in older adults and in people with a history of significant sun exposure.
• Risk is increased by fair skin, a history of sunburns, chronic sun exposure (occupational or recreational), and, for squamous cell carcinoma, chronic wounds or scars.
• A weakened immune system also increases risk.

• Any suspicious skin lesion — new, changing, non-healing, or bleeding — should be examined by a health worker.
• A skin biopsy, taking a small sample of the lesion for laboratory examination, confirms the diagnosis and specific type of skin cancer.

Surgical removal of the lesion, with a margin of surrounding normal skin, is the standard and highly effective treatment for both basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, particularly when caught early.

Other treatment options, such as destruction of superficial lesions or other specific therapies, may be considered for certain smaller or superficial lesions depending on location and characteristics, as advised by a specialist.

Larger or more advanced lesions, or those in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas, may need more complex surgical or reconstructive approaches.

Regular follow-up after treatment is recommended, as people who have had one skin cancer are at increased risk of developing another.

• Use sun protection consistently — broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat, particularly during peak sun hours.
• Avoid deliberate sun tanning and sunburn.
• Perform regular skin self-examination to notice new or changing lesions.
• Seek prompt assessment for any new, changing, or non-healing skin lesion.
• People with a history of significant sun exposure or fair skin should consider regular skin checks with a health worker.