Skin Cancer

Personalised treatments designed to fight cancer while minimising side effects.

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What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It is one of the most common cancers worldwide and includes different types such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. While some forms are less aggressive, others like melanoma can spread quickly if not detected and treated early.

How Common is Skin Cancer in Singapore?

According to GLOBOCAN 2020, skin cancer is less common in Singapore compared to Western countries, but cases are rising. There are over 1,300 new cases of skin cancer reported annually, with melanoma being less frequent but more aggressive. Early detection and prevention remain key, especially in populations with high sun exposure.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer can present in many ways, but common warning signs include:

A new mole or growth on the skin
Changes in the size, shape, or colour of existing moles
A sore that does not heal
Patches of skin that are itchy, scaly, or bleed easily
Dark streaks under fingernails or toenails (possible sign of melanoma)

Any persistent lump or swelling should be checked by a doctor, especially if it is growing.

How is Skin Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves:

Clinical examination of the skin by a dermatologist or oncologist
Dermatoscopy for detailed visual inspection
Skin biopsy to confirm the type of cancer
Imaging tests (CT, MRI, or PET scans) if there is suspicion of spread

What Causes Skin Cancer and Who is at Risk?

The main cause of skin cancer is prolonged exposure to UV radiation, either from the sun or tanning devices. Risk factors include:

Fair skin, light hair, or light-coloured eyes
History of sunburns, especially in childhood
Family or personal history of skin cancer
Weakened immune system (e.g., after organ transplant)
Exposure to certain chemicals (arsenic, industrial tar)

The good news is that many skin cancers are preventable. Protecting your skin with sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours, and performing regular skin checks can reduce risk and help detect changes early.

What Are the Types of Skin Cancer?

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

The most common but usually slow-growing and less likely to spread

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Can grow deeper and spread if untreated

Melanoma

The most dangerous form, arising from pigment-producing cells (melanocytes), with high potential to spread to other organs

Rare types

Merkel cell carcinoma, Kaposi sarcoma, and others

What Are the Stages of Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer staging depends on tumour size, depth of invasion, lymph node involvement, and spread to other organs.

Early stage (Stage 0–I)

Localised, often curable with surgery

Intermediate stage (Stage II–III)

May involve deeper skin layers or nearby lymph nodes

Advanced stage (Stage IV)

Cancer has spread (metastasised) to distant organs

What Are the Treatments for Skin Cancer?

Treatment depends on the type, size, and stage of cancer:

Surgery

Wide local excision, Mohs micrographic surgery for precise removal while sparing healthy tissue.

Radiotherapy

For cancers not suitable for surgery or to control spread.

Photodynamic therapy & topical treatments

For superficial skin cancers.

At OncoCare Singapore, treatment decisions are personalised, taking into account medical evidence, cosmetic outcomes, and patient needs.

Meet Our Doctors

At OncoCare Singapore, our multidisciplinary team includes oncologists, dermatologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists with expertise in managing skin cancers, including rare and advanced cases. Specialised oncology nurses, physiotherapists, and psycho-oncology counsellors provide holistic support throughout treatment. Together, we deliver a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan for every patient.