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Melanoma health centre

Skin cancer overview

Skin cancers include malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Basal and squamous cell are common and treatment is very effective. Malignant melanoma, especially in later stages, is life-threatening. Around 2,000 people die from malignant melanoma skin cancer each year in the England and Wales. Experts believe ‘binge’ tanning and increased use of sunbeds is to blame. Early diagnosis and treatment can increase the survival rate.

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Skin cancer and lower risk of Alzheimer's disease

People who have non-melanoma skin cancer may be less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, according to new research published in the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

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Understanding skin cancer -- diagnosis and treatment

How do I know if it's skin cancer?

All potentially cancerous skin growths must be removed to confirm a cancer diagnosis. Depending on the suspected type of skin cancer, the biopsy techniques vary slightly.

Any potential melanoma requires a surgical biopsy, also called excisional biopsy, in which the entire growth is removed with a scalpel. A pathologist then studies the sample under a microscope to determine whether cancer cells are present.

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Melanoma is an increasing problem. See what it looks like and how to treat it.

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