There are over 5 million cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the United States annually, making it the country’s most common cancer.  It is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer.  Approximately 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanomas are associated with exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun.  We can help save lives by knowing and sharing the facts about the dangers of unprotected sun exposure and by being knowledgeable of the skin cancer warning signs.

Fortunately, dermatologists can successfully treat most cases of early-stage, non-melanoma skin cancer in an outpatient setting, however there are some instances in which more aggressive treatment is needed. Patients with more advanced skin cancer that does not respond well to traditional treatment can consider clinical trials in which promising new treatment strategies are being studied. Thanks to the work of researchers and clinical trials, we have more skin cancer treatment options now than ever.

For instance, research and clinical trials have been instrumental in the development of immunotherapy as a successful treatment for melanoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.  However, new treatment options for these and other skin cancers are urgently needed, and there are currently several clinical trials available that specifically target non-melanoma skin cancers.

People who participate in skin cancer clinical trials help researchers learn more about skin cancer and develop improved treatments. Just as the treatments we receive today are based on the results of past clinical trials, we know that tomorrow’s treatments depend upon what we learn in clinical trials today. To learn more about skin cancer clinical trials near you, visit us HERE.

Sources:  skincancerfoundation.org, cancer.gov