Risk of Melanoma in Patients with Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Population-based Cohort Study.
This 2023 study from Israel provided interesting findings that support the common sense notion that individuals who have previously had Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) are more likely to develop a malignant melanoma. It is surprising to observe the number of patients with a history of BCCs and SCCs who do not regularly seek skin cancer screenings. Some believe that their non-life-threatening skin cancers exempt them from worrying about melanoma.
The results of this study demonstrated a significantly higher likelihood of developing melanoma among individuals with a history of BCCs, which poses a life-threatening risk.
Dr. Kim explains, “This finding is logical since a personal history of BCC signifies significant exposure to UV radiation, which predisposes individuals to develop melanoma. But nevertheless, it is a reminder that those at high risk should regularly have their skin examined”
Regular annual skin checks should be incorporated into our daily lives, especially for individuals with a personal history of BCCs.
