Skin cancer

I have a new growth on my shoulder that has been looked at by a dermatologist but I need to wait a few weeks to hear anything. I know nothing about skin cancer and would like to know how treatable it is, survival rates and anything else that may put my mind at rest. I have 2 young children so obviously very worried

  • Hello Shentzr and thanks for posting,

    I am sorry to learn that you are waiting to hear what will happen next after seeing the dermatologist (skin specialist). I can appreciate that this is an unsettling time. 

    Although it can vary depending on the sub-type of skin cancer that someone has and a few other things,  generally skin cancer is usually very treatable and overall has a good survival rate. 

    Treatment is often to remove it with surgery and a biopsy may be needed beforehand to establish that it is skin cancer and if so what type.

    I am not sure how much it will help to read up on skin cancer at the moment as you haven't been diagnosed with it, but if you want to, our website has more information at this link.   Reading up on things doesn't always help and can sometimes add to the worry that comes from dealing with uncertainty, but I am not sure if the dermatologist gave you any idea of what might be causing the growth.

    Try your best to keep an open mind for now and do things that will help to distract you.  

    I hope you know more soon.

    Give us a ring if you want to talk anything over. Our number is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and we are here weekdays from 9-5.

    Wishing you the best,

    Julia