BCC is the most common type of skin cancer (around 75% of all skin cancers diagnosed). It develops from basal cells, found in the deepest part of the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They are typically found in areas of chronic sun exposure, such as the head and neck. It is rare for basal cell skin cancer to metastasise. However, they can cause significant destruction and disfigurement if neglected or inadequately treated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Patients who have had a BCC are prone to developing further skin cancer (estimated clinical risk of 50% over 5 years).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Risk factors for all skin cancers<\/strong> include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Excessive sunlight exposure and sun bed use (UV radiation) and is highest in people with fair skin colour and a susceptibility to burn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Suspect a BCC<\/strong> if a skin lesion has one or more of the following characteristics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n