More and more Belgians are suffering from a recurrence of this cancer: “It is very important that people know their skin and check for signs of changes”

Therefore, in its annual information campaign (which will take place from May 27 to 31), Euromelanoma calls for more attention to be paid to the physical and psychological support of patients. It must be said that anyone who has had skin cancer has a greater risk of recurrence. “Our skin is in many ways the organ most often affected by tumors, accounting for 40 to 50% of all cancers. Therefore, it is very important to check it regularly, remember Thomas Maselis, dermatologist and president of Euromelanoma Belgium.. We are also starting to collaborate with associations of professionals who frequently examine the skin, such as physiotherapists, home nurses, hairdressers… They do not necessarily make a diagnosis, but they can point out a possible suspicious site.”

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In terms of risk factors, there are several factors that contribute to the development of melanoma, but the most important is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun (natural) and/or tanning beds (artificial).

“If you’re worried about a small, suspicious spot, don’t wait.”

And unlike most other types of skin cancer, melanoma can quickly become invasive. Cancer cells then leave the original tumor and can then settle in other organs at a distance, forming metastases.

»Skin cancer survivors also have a greater risk of recurrence.– he emphasizes. This applies to approximately 12% of patients. If we look at the three most common skin cancers, this risk reaches 40% over three years for basal cell carcinoma and 30% over five years for squamous cell carcinoma. Patients with melanoma are ten times more likely to develop new melanoma. This means not only that more and more Belgians are getting skin cancer every year, but also that more and more Belgians are getting it for the second time. Therefore, it is important to continue monitoring and taking care of yourself by checking your skin regularly. There is no need to panic and you do not need to constantly go to the dermatologist for examination. But if you’re worried about a small, suspicious spot, don’t wait.”

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According to the Euromalnoma association, the increase in the number of skin cancer patients in our country can be explained by three main reasons: an ever-increasing life expectancy (we are aging, and our skin is aging, which increases the risk of skin cell carcinogenesis); greater exposure to ultraviolet rays (tanning beds, travel, etc.) and “immunosuppressants” also play a role. Indeed, more and more people are taking medications that suppress the immune system, such as people who have had organ transplants, suffer from autoimmune diseases, or suffer from arthritis.

“Skin cancer is one of the few forms of cancer that can be noticed on its own, so it is important that people become aware of their skin and watch for signs of changes.” marked Véronique del Marmol, President of Euromelanoma Europe. Vigilance is really necessary, especially if you have already had skin cancer. Protect yourself from sun damage, check your skin regularly, and attend follow-up appointments. Therefore, our 25th Live and Learn + Learn to Live campaign focuses on this patient group and aims to encourage positive and healthy attitudes.”.