Skin cancer care

Skin cancer is by far the most common type of cancer, with more men and women diagnosed each year than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers combined. The disease is slow growing and often free of any glaring symptoms, but it can become serious or life-threatening once it’s spread to other parts of the body.

The good news: Skin cancer is highly preventable and almost always curable when caught and treated early. At Advocate Cancer Institute, we offer the education you need to keep your skin safe, plus a full range of early detection tools and treatment options.

Find an Advocate Cancer Institute near you.

About skin cancer

Skin cancer starts in the cells of the skin, especially in areas routinely exposed to the sun like the hands, face, neck, shoulders and arms. But, it can also occur anywhere on the body. Skin cancer affects people of every age, race and skin tone, though those with fair skin, multiple sunburns during childhood or a family history of the disease are at an increased risk.

Types of skin cancer: There are three main types of skin cancer. Basal and squamous cell cancers are the most common and strongly related to sun exposure. They are less likely to spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening. Melanomas, which form in skin that produces pigments (moles, freckles and age spots), account for less than 1% of skin cancers, but can be far more dangerous if left alone.

Warning signs: Warning signs can vary by the type of skin cancer, but all usually appear as changes to your skin, such as new or unusual growths, changes in existing moles, scaly patches or sores that bleed.

Prevention & early detection

Most skin cancers are caused by long-term or intense exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, either from the sun or tanning beds. Daily use of an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen can reduce the risk of skin cancer by as much as 50 percent. Wear hats and long, protective clothing during the sun’s strongest hours, between 10 am and 4 pm

It’s also crucial to catch skin can early, when treatment is usually very successful. Checking your skin regularly may help you find any new or abnormal growths to share with your doctor before they ever have a chance to become cancer. If you do notice anything unusual, or just want to stay proactive, Advocate offers routine skin cancer screenings at locations near you.

Personalized treatment plans

If you find that you have skin cancer, rest assured you have some of the Midwest's best experts by your side. Our dedicated team – including board-certified dermatologists, surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists and more specialists – work closely with you to create a personalized cancer treatment plan. And you have access to promising new treatments like immunotherapy and the latest cancer clinical trials.

Support for every step

We’re committed to providing the all the education, tools and resources you and your loved ones need to manage a cancer diagnosis. You’ll find a full range of free or low-cost cancer support services – from education to rehabilitation, nutritional to spiritual counseling, support groups and more to meet your needs.