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Image of Dr Ben on the right standing at a computer with a shirtless patient on his left looking at an image of the patient's legs and up close images of skin markings.

Skin Cancers

Your skin, your health: exploring different cancer types.

Understanding the nuances of skin cancer is crucial, and we are here to guide you through what to look for and the associated risk factors. We want to empower you with information to foster awareness and proactive care about cancer.

Together, let’s navigate the intricacies of skin health, ensuring you have the tools and help you need to make informed decisions for your well-being.

Actinic keratosis

Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is the most common form of “pre-cancer.” It develops from chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or indoor tanning. While it is a condition that can not be cured, it can definitely be managed with the right treatment.

What to watch for:

  • Flat or slightly raised spots that are crusty, rough or scaly
  • Red, pink, skin-coloured or silvery coloured patches
  • Frequently appear on the neck, face, ears, scalp, shoulders, back of the hands and forearms (areas of the skin that have the most exposure to daylight)
  • Usually more widespread, affecting larger areas than it appears to
Picture of a patient's face with a skin mark being measured by calipers.
Picture of Dr Ben, a doctor, in his office examining a patient for skin cancer.

Know your risk factors.

Here are the most common risk factors for skin cancer: 

  • Excessive exposure to sun or tanning beds
  • History of sunburns
  • History of precancerous skin lesions
  • History of skin cancer
  • Fair skin tone
  • Weakened immunity

Please note: these are just some of the risk factors to look out for. If you have any concerns about your skin’s health or specific issues, please make an appointment with your doctor or with one of our specialists.