Skin Cancer as the Most Common Form of Cancer in Humans - Essay Example

Although older and light-colored people have higher rates of incurring skin cancer, exposure to the sun is a big factor. However, about 20% of skin cancers occur in areas that are not exposed to the sun; the chest, back, scalp, arms, and legs. (So, 19) There are different ways to effectively treat skin cancer (basal skin carcinoma): curettage and desiccation, surgical excision, cryosurgery radiation therapy, and Mohs micrographic surgery.

Amongst these 5 ways, Mohs micrographic surgery has the highest cure rate, exceeding 98%. This is also the most preferred method, especially on large basal carcinomas. The surgeon removes a small piece of the tumor and scrutinizes it during the surgery. This process of examination is repeated thoroughly so cancer can be plotted without estimating the width of the lesion. This is normally the method used by surgeons on those that recur after previous treatment with different methods. This method can work well with plastic surgeons to attain the best possible postsurgical appearance. (So, 36)