Post-operative radiotherapy may be advised. By far, the most serious skin cancer is melanoma and in the last decade there has been a continuous increase in the number of these cancers. Melanoma is not a disease to be taken lightly. Wide surgical excision, sometimes with lymph node resection, is necessary. Here in Rhode Island we can expect over 200 cases a year, probably because of the increased exposure to sunlight the population of Rhode Island experiences.
Early detection is critical.
A mole which changes color or becomes irregularly colored, or becomes irregular in its outline, must be shown to a physician as soon as possible. One of the problems is that people do not examine their skin for changes and for moles. It is difficult to examine some parts of your own body and help from someone else is necessary or the use of a mirror is required. Awareness of the importance of early detection of this disease can make the difference between a life and death. Skin cancers can be prevented by covering up, wearing a hat, and using sunscreen SPF 30 whenever going out into the sun.