In Spain, it is estimated that around 170 cases of skin cancer are diagnosed per 100,000 inhabitants a year.
In this country, the incidence of skin cancer is estimated to be about 170 cases per 100,000 people a year. That figure that could be reduced if appropriate measures were taken to prevent the disease or detect it early on. Dr. Alberto Conde Taboada, Head of the Dermatology Service at MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, insists that “the best way to prevent melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer (the most common, less aggressive sub-type) is to be stricter regarding exposure to the sun and to avoid sunburn.
In spite of the high incidence of the disease, the good news is that “skin cancer detected in time can be cured”, states Dr. Conde Tabaoda. Provided, of course, the patient consults a doctor in time. With that in mind, and on the occasion of European Skin Cancer Day next June 13, MD Anderson Madrid recommends consulting a dermatologist if you have a mole that is growing, changing in shape or color, or that bleeds for no apparent reason.
To tell the difference between a normal skin lesion and a malignant skin lesion, MD Anderson Madrid is currently using examination techniques involving digital dermoscopy. “This technique is useful in not only reaching a differential diagnosis, but also in monitoring the development of these moles accurately”, explains the specialist.
Furthermore, another application that has also advanced the diagnosis and monitoring of skin cancer is digital photography, through which “we have achieved excellent results in monitoring lesions, as we can save images more easily and can therefore evaluate their development over time”.