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Basal cell carcinoma, also called basal cell cancer or BCC, is the most common skin cancer. It usually grows slowly and almost never spreads, but without treatment it may grow deeper and damage skin, cartilage or other tissue.
- Watch for a sore that does not heal, keeps returning or bleeds easily, a shiny lump or a changing scaly patch.
- Substantial ultraviolet exposure from the sun or sunbeds is the main avoidable risk factor. On Curaçao, sun protection is needed all year.
- A doctor assesses the area and often removes a small skin sample for examination. Only tissue examination can establish with certainty what it is.
- Most people are cured after treatment. Checking your own skin remains important because the risk of a new lesion is increased.
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