Skin Cancer: It’s being called an epidemic.
Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers and accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States. More than 3.5 million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancer are diagnosed in this country each year. The alarming uptick in the diagnosis of basal and squamous cell (non-melanoma) skin cancer means more and more people will require skin cancer treatment in the coming years.
As the fastest growing cancer in the world, about four million people are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer–2.5 times more than all the other cancers combined. By 2020, experts predict that number will grow 50% to nearly six million; fueled by the Baby Boomer generation.
What is Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)?
95%+ Cure Rate for Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
Affiliated Dermatology now specializes in skin cancer treatment by using the specialized Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) technique. SRT will eliminate cancer from delicate and hard to reach areas. By delivering a precise, calibrated dose of Superficial Radiation Therapy that only goes skin deep, you can be safely treated right in our office for non-melanoma skin cancers.
Low-dose Superficial Radiation Therapy is virtually painless and effectively destroys basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, as well as the non-malignant tumor cells that cause keloids. Best of all, it doesn’t involve cutting, bleeding or stitching. With this technology, there is no need for anesthesia, no risk of infection or scarring, no need for reconstructive plastic surgery. Patients heal quickly and don’t have downtime or lifestyle restrictions following treatment.
If your provider has diagnosed you with non-melanoma skin cancer, SRT is a safe and effective non-surgical option for your treatment.
How long is a typical treatment?
Depending on the treatment protocol your provider chooses for your particular case, you may need several treatments per week for up to several weeks.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Warm sunshine feels so good on the skin, but over your lifetime the cumulative effects of long-term sun exposure and other sources of ultraviolet light can lead to basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Nearly three million Americans are diagnosed with BCC each year–making it the most common type of all cancers. With the number of cases expected to grow, more people will undergo basal cell carcinoma treatment. Although it is the mildest form of skin cancer and rarely spreads to vital organs, rare aggressive forms of the disease can be deadly if not treated properly.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Over your lifetime the damaging effects of UV rays–â€from the sun, tanning beds and other sources–can lead to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). With nearly 700,000 new cases diagnosed each year, effective squamous cell carcinoma treatment is more important than ever. Left untreated, the telltale signs of SCC–scaly red patches, open sores that crust or bleed, and unattractive growths–can become disfiguring, even deadly if it invades tissue below the skin’s surface and spreads to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body.
Skin Cancer Screenings
Early detection is key to saving lives. Bi-annual complete body skin examinations by the doctors at Affiliated Dermatology can help in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. We perform skin exams and biopsies that can quickly determine whether you are at risk of developing skin cancer or have already developed the disease. Skin cancers are generally curable if caught early, however, regular self-exams and doctor visits are imperative.
With an in-house laboratory and board-certified dermatopathologist, the doctors at Affiliated Dermatology are able to provide this new state-of-the-art treatment for skin cancer, however, not all skin cancers require SRT. Affiliated Dermatology will determine if you are a candidate and require this procedure.
