Skin cancer is a type of cancer wherein there is an abnormal growth of skin cells due to sun/UV exposure. There are 3 major types of skin cancers – basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma – and they are the 6th most common form of cancer in Singapore, according to the Singapore Cancer Registry.

Surgery is the most effective treatment for most skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. This means that most patients are cured of that skin cancer after surgery.

Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise form of surgery to remove certain skin cancers. Also known as Mohs surgery, it is named after the doctor who came up with it. During Mohs surgery, thin layers of cancer-containing skin are removed in stages until only cancer-free skin remains.

Skin cancer screening is a thorough examination of the skin to look for possible skin cancers. Skin cancer screening can be carried out through self-examination or by a dermatologist. Our skin is the only organ that allows easy inspection with our naked eye.