Skin Cancer

DESCRIPTION

The unfortunate combination of New Zealand’s genetic heritage, lifestyle and the harsh level of ultra violet light in our environment means that New Zealanders have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. The two most prevalent forms of skin cancer are the basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and the squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Both of these tumours are related primarily to the cumulative dose of ultra violet radiation the skin has been exposed to during the patients lifetime. In addition to these factors, there are also several familial and environmental promoters of each form of cancer. Melanoma is a less common but potentially more troublesome form of skin cancer.