Skin Cancer in the Cayman Islands
Skin cancers are more common than all other cancers combined. In a climate like Cayman, it is even more of a concern. There are two main types of Skin Cancer including:
Non-melanoma Skin Cancer: There are two common types of non-melanoma skin cancer. These are cancers which form in cells that do not make pigment. Both types usually occur in skin that has been exposed to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. They include:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma (there is also actinic keratosis which is a skin condition that can sometimes turn into squamous cell carcinoma)
Melanoma Skin Cancer: This is less common than non-melanoma skin cancer. However, is more likely to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. We are very blessed with a warm and sunny climate in the Cayman Islands with many enjoying a plethora of outdoor activities. However, with this comes more risk of skin cancer. It is important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays using proper clothing and high factor sun screens.
Skin Cancer Screenings at Integra
Integra Healthcare offers a comprehensive skin cancer screening programme in Cayman. It is designed to identify melanoma skin cancers at the earliest possible stage. Integra is privileged to have the very latest screening technology – Total Body Dermoscopy, that marries Automated Total Body Photography and Dermoscopy. This new technology has built-in Artificial Intelligence to swiftly and reliably identify moles and skin blemishes that require deeper evaluation. The new FotoFinder ATBM Master uses sophisticated camera technology and powerful image processing, to ensure dermoscopic structures are already visible in the clinical image. We are justifiably proud of the advance this brings to early skin cancer detection.
Skin Cancer Screening Frequency
This can depend on skin pigment or shade and a range of other risk factors. Our dermatologists can advise you on the correct schedule, which could be anything from:
- Self-examination predminantly and occasional Mole Mapping
- Annual Mole Mapping
- Six-Monthly Mole Mapping
- More frequently for particularly at risk individuals
It’s generally covered by insurance and we can always advise on that. Given this and the massive mortality and morbidity benefits of early detection, it’s just not worth the risk of missing or late diagnosing a melanoma.
Benefits of Early Detection: Exploring the facts
- 98% survival rate: at 5 years post diagnosis if melanoma remains localised (early)
- 64% survival rate: at 5 years if melanoma has spread to the regional lymph nodes
- 23% survival rate: at 5 years if melanoma has spread to distant parts of body (late)
Early detection saves lives. Book your consultation today.
