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Skin Cancer
 

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth on cells on the skin. Many kinds of skin cancer exist, with the most common being basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The most dangerous form of skin cancer is melanoma as it is most likely to spread, making it harder to cure.


Signs and Symptoms

Signs of skin cancer include:

  • A new growth on the skin that resembles a mole, bump or scab
  • A rough patch on the skin
  • A sore that won’t heal
  • Changes to a mole
  • Itchy skin around a skin growth
  • Pain around a skin growth

Do see your healthcare provider if you notice any of these symptoms.


Prevention

The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect yourself from the sun and harmful UV rays. Here are some ways you can lower your risk of skin cancer:

  1. Avoid spending time under the sun in the middle of the day
  2. Wear sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 year-round
  3. Cover up with sun protective clothing. These clothings should prioritize coverage, tight weaves, and darker colors.
  4. Avoid getting sunburned


Skin Cancer: The Only Cancer Visible to Your Eyes

Dr. Melissa Tan Wee Ping, Senior Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatologic Surgeon, talks about the ABCDE's of skin cancer.
Read the story

 


Understanding Cancer: Your Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support

Advancements in medical technology today offer hope despite the rising incidence of cancer worldwide. With a comprehensive approach to cancer care, including support from experienced clinical oncologists, specialists, and healthcare professionals, many cancers may be effectively treated or managed.


Empowering Yourself with Knowledge

This resource provides information about cancer, including:

  • Types of Cancer: Learn about different forms of cancer and their specific characteristics.
  • Early Detection: Understand the importance of cancer screening for early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.
  • Treatment Options: Explore various cancer treatments, including surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
  • Financial Assistance: Discover available financial aid options to help manage the cost of cancer care.
  • Reducing Your Risk: Learn about lifestyle factors and preventive measures to minimize your cancer risk.


What is Cancer?

Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Normally, the body replaces old or damaged cells with new ones. However, genetic mutations or other factors can disrupt this process, leading to the formation of abnormal cells that multiply uncontrollably and form tumors.

Types of Tumors:

  • Benign Tumors: Non-cancerous tumors that do not spread to other parts of the body.
     
  • Malignant Tumors: Cancerous tumors that can spread to other parts of the body, also known as metastasis.


What Causes Cancer?

Cancer is caused by a complex interplay of factors, including:

  • Non-Modifiable Factors: Age, family history, and inherited genetic mutations.
     
  • Modifiable Factors:
    • Lifestyle: Diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
    • Environmental Exposures: Radiation, ultraviolet rays, pollutants, and certain viruses and bacteria.


Symptoms of Cancer

Cancer symptoms vary depending on the type and location. However, some general signs and symptoms include:

  • Fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Swelling or lumps
  • Skin changes
  • Persistent cough or headaches
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising


Important Note: These symptoms may also be indicative of other health conditions. Speak to our Specialists today for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.


Common Cancers in Singapore

  • Men
    Colorectal cancer
    is also known as bowel cancer and rectal cancer, and is a disease in which the cells in the colon and rectum mutate and change.

    Prostate cancer occurs specifically in the prostate, located below the bladder and in front of the rectum, where cells mutate to form tumors that may be localized or spread to nearby tissues.

    Lung cancer is a disease in which cells in the lungs mutate to form tumors that interfere with the lung's primary function of taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide.

     
  • Women
    Breast cancer
    develops in breast tissue where tumors form, and most breast cancers begin in the ducts and glands of breasts.

    Colorectal cancer is also known as bowel cancer and rectal cancer and is a disease in which the cells in the colon and rectum mutate and change.

    Lung cancer is a disease in which cells in the lungs mutate to form tumors that interfere with the lung's primary function of taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide,


Cancer Treatment Goals

  • Complete tumor removal.
  • Prevention of cancer recurrence or spread.
  • Symptom management and palliative care.


Cancer Prevention

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent cancer, you may reduce your risk by:

  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet.
  • Getting regular exercise.
  • Undergoing recommended cancer screenings.
  • Getting vaccinated against certain cancer-causing viruses (e.g., HPV).


Farrer Park Cancer Care is supported by a panel of multi-disciplinary oncology experts to guide patients and their caregivers on their cancer journey; using innovative approaches to cancer treatments with new technologies, personalized care plans and therapies.

From understanding a cancer diagnosis to deciding on a treatment plan, we are here to meet the spectrum of needs required by our patients, providing them with clinical care and working together to make informed decisions as we navigate with them through the disease into remission.