Skin Cancer Treatment

Skin Cancer Treatment in India

Overview

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer globally. It primarily affects areas exposed to the sun but can appear anywhere on the body. While basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are usually localized and less aggressive, melanoma is more serious and potentially life-threatening.

India provides advanced and affordable treatment options for skin cancer, making it a preferred destination for international patients.

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer results from abnormal growth of skin cells, often triggered by UV (ultraviolet) exposure from the sun. These abnormal cells can form benign (non-spreading) or malignant (spreading) tumors.

Types of Skin Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
- Most common type
- Appears on sun-exposed areas (face, neck, scalp)
- Slow-growing, rarely spreads
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
- Can appear on face, hands, lips, ears
- May spread if untreated
Melanoma
- Most dangerous type
- Can appear anywhere including eyes and internal organs
- Spreads quickly if not detected early

Signs and Symptoms

New or changing mole
Dome-shaped growth
Scaly patch
Non-healing sore
Black/brown stripe under nail
Growths that bleed or crust

Causes

UV exposure from sunlight or tanning beds
Weakened immune system
Fair skin
Genetics
Arsenic exposure
Certain viruses (e.g., Merkel cell polyomavirus)

Diagnosis

Skin Examination
Biopsy
Imaging Tests: MRI, CT, PET (for advanced cases)
Lymph Node Evaluation: For melanoma or advanced cancers

Treatment Options

For Localized Cancer:

Excision Surgery
Cryotherapy (Freezing)
Mohs Surgery (for high-risk facial areas)

For Advanced or Spreading Cancer:

Radiation Therapy
Chemotherapy
Photodynamic Therapy
Biological Therapy (immunomodulators)

Cost Factors in India

Cancer type and stage
Diagnostic test frequency
Doctor's experience
Hospital type and location
Medication cost
Hospital stay duration

India provides 50–60% cost savings compared to developed countries.

Why Choose India?

Internationally accredited hospitals (NABH, JCI)
Expert dermatologists and oncologists
Latest technologies and equipment
Personalized, compassionate care
Medical tourism support (accommodation, visas)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does skin cancer treatment take?
A: Depends on the method. Surgery may take 10–30 minutes. Radiation is typically given 5 days/week for 2–3 weeks.

Q: What precautions help prevent skin cancer?
A:

Avoid sunburns and tanning beds
Wear protective clothing and sunscreen
Seek shade, especially midday

Q: What foods help fight melanoma?
A: Retinol-rich foods: milk, fish, dark leafy greens, orange/yellow fruits.

Q: How is melanoma destroyed?
A: Laser-induced bubbles burst melanoma cells; vitamin D also slows melanoma growth.

Q: How long does diagnosis take?
A: Biopsy results typically take 2–3 weeks.

Q: What vitamins help with melanoma?
A: Vitamin D3 levels correlate with better melanoma prognosis.