SymptomsMain symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancerThe main symptom of non-melanoma skin cancer is a growth or unusual patch on the skin. Any part of your skin can be affected, but it's most common in areas exposed to the sun, such as the:
The growths or patches can vary in colour, size and texture. New mole or changes to a moleA new mole or a change in an existing mole may be a sign of melanoma. This is a more serious type of skin cancer. Find out more about symptoms of melanoma When and where to get medical helpIt's important to get any symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer checked by a GP. See a GP if:
Finding non-melanoma skin cancer early can mean it's easier to treat. What happens at your GP appointmentThe GP may ask some questions about your health and symptoms, and how much time you spend in the sun. Tell the GP if the growth or area of affected skin has recently changed. Also tell them if you or your family have had skin cancer in the past. The GP will look at the affected area of skin. They may ask if they can take a photograph to send to a specialist (dermatologist) to look at. Referral to a specialistYou may get an urgent referral for more tests or to see a specialist in hospital if the GP thinks you have symptoms that could be cancer. This does not definitely mean you have cancer. Find out moreSexual Health AdviceThroughout this series we have help and advice on staying healthy, dealing with Sexually Transmitted Infections, the risks of each type of the most popular gay sex and what to do if the sex you have is not consentual. The topics covered in this series include:
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