How Deadly is Skin Cancer? Types, Risks, and Survival Rates Explained
Skin cancer is among the most common types of cancer globally, yet many people underestimate its severity. While some forms of skin cancer are highly treatable, others can be fatal if left undetected. The key lies in recognising the different types, understanding their risks, and knowing when to seek medical help.
In this article, we explore how deadly skin cancer truly is, what affects survival rates, and how you can protect yourself through early detection and prevention.
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably. It usually develops due to DNA damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. There are three main types:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least dangerous form.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Can spread if not treated but generally manageable.
- Melanoma: The deadliest form, responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths.
Is Skin Cancer Deadly?
The answer depends largely on the type of skin cancer and how early it’s diagnosed. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas rarely lead to death if treated early. However, melanoma, especially when not caught early, can be extremely aggressive and life-threatening.
Survival Rates by Type
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: Nearly 100% survival when caught early. Rarely spreads.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: About 95% survival with early treatment, but risk of spread increases with delay.
- Melanoma: 99% five-year survival rate when detected early, but drops to 30% once it spreads to distant organs.
Clearly, early detection is the defining factor in how deadly skin cancer can become.
How Common is Skin Cancer?
In the UK, more than 16,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year, and thousands more with non-melanoma skin cancers. Globally, skin cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer, especially in regions with high UV exposure.
What Makes Melanoma So Dangerous?
Melanoma originates in the melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. What makes it particularly deadly is its ability to spread quickly to lymph nodes, lungs, brain, and other organs if not detected early.
Key factors contributing to melanoma’s severity include:
- Late diagnosis due to misidentifying symptoms
- Rapid growth and spread
- Lack of awareness or routine skin checks
Early Signs of Skin Cancer to Watch For
Early detection is vital. You should regularly examine your skin for the following signs, particularly using the ABCDE rule for moles:
- A – Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other
- B – Border: Edges are irregular or blurred
- C – Colour: Multiple colours or uneven shading
- D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, colour, or behaviour
Other warning signs include:
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- Red or scaly patches
- A new growth or bump
- Itchiness or bleeding from a mole
Risk Factors for Deadly Skin Cancer
Some people are more at risk than others. High-risk factors include:
- Fair skin and light-coloured eyes
- Excessive sun exposure or history of sunburns
- Use of tanning beds
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
- Having many moles or atypical (dysplastic) moles
- Weakened immune system
Skin Cancer in Young Adults
Contrary to common belief, skin cancer isn’t just a concern for older adults. Melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young people aged 25 to 29. Young women in particular face a higher risk, possibly due to indoor tanning and sun exposure during teenage years.
How is Skin Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a visual exam by a dermatologist. If a suspicious spot is found, a biopsy is performed, where a sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope.
Further tests such as imaging (CT, MRI, PET scans) may be required if doctors suspect the cancer has spread.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and stage of skin cancer:
- Surgical removal: Often used for all types and very effective when caught early.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing off cancer cells for surface-level tumours.
- Topical creams: Used for superficial BCC or SCC.
- Radiation: Applied when surgery isn’t possible or for advanced cases.
- Immunotherapy and targeted therapy: Especially for melanoma that has spread.
Real-Life Example
Rebecca, a 32-year-old from Leeds, noticed a small mole on her back changing shape. She booked a dermatologist appointment, and the mole was confirmed as early-stage melanoma. Thanks to prompt surgical removal, Rebecca fully recovered and now goes for yearly skin checks.
Can You Die from Skin Cancer?
Yes, particularly from melanoma or untreated squamous cell carcinoma. Around 2,500 people die of melanoma in the UK each year. While death from basal cell carcinoma is rare, advanced or neglected cases can still cause significant tissue damage and complications.
Prevention Tips
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
- Seek shade, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Avoid indoor tanning
- Perform monthly skin self-checks
- Visit a dermatologist annually for a professional exam
Conclusion
Skin cancer can be deadly, especially melanoma, but early detection dramatically improves survival rates. By understanding the signs, being proactive with sun protection, and regularly checking your skin, you can catch potential issues early and increase your chances of full recovery.
Never ignore unusual changes in your skin. When in doubt, get it checked out—it could save your life.
FAQs About Skin Cancer
Q1. Is all skin cancer deadly?
No, basal and squamous cell carcinomas are usually treatable. Melanoma, however, can be fatal if not caught early.
Q2. How fast does melanoma spread?
Melanoma can spread quickly—within weeks or months. Early detection is crucial.
Q3. Can skin cancer be cured?
Yes, especially when caught early. Treatment success rates are very high for early-stage cancers.
Q4. Do people with dark skin get skin cancer?
Yes. While less common, it can occur and is often diagnosed at later stages in darker-skinned individuals.
Q5. Can you prevent skin cancer completely?
You can reduce the risk significantly through sun protection and regular check-ups, but not all cases are preventable.