Published March 31, 2025Last updated May 17, 2026
Medical information note: This page is educational and is not a diagnosis, treatment plan, or substitute for advice from a licensed clinician. All Seniors Foundation helps older adults and families in Los Angeles County understand support options and connect with appropriate care resources when available. For medical emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Skin Cancer

Senior woman outdoors checking skin for signs of skin cancer — All Seniors Foundation

Complete Guide to Skin Cancer: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment

3D medical illustration of a cancer cell invading healthy tissue used for senior‐focused education by All Seniors Foundation
What is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It is the most common type of cancer worldwide.
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3D medical illustration of a cancer cell invading healthy tissue used for senior‐focused education by All Seniors Foundation
Infographic listing risk factors for adrenal cancer in seniors – All Seniors Foundation
Risks for Skin Cancer
Key risk factors include excessive sun exposure, fair skin, a history of sunburns, use of tanning beds, a weakened immune system, and a family history of skin cancer.
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Infographic listing risk factors for adrenal cancer in seniors – All Seniors Foundation
Early cancer screening and detection support for seniors
Finding Skin Cancer Early
Regular skin self-exams and annual dermatologist checkups can help detect skin cancer in its early stages, when it's most treatable.
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Early cancer screening and detection support for seniors
Infographic illustrating symptoms of adrenal cancer in seniors – All Seniors Foundation
Symptoms of Skin Cancer
Look for new or changing moles, spots that itch or bleed, and lesions with irregular shapes or colors. Early symptoms vary by skin cancer type.
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Infographic illustrating symptoms of adrenal cancer in seniors – All Seniors Foundation
Finding cancer specialists and care teams for seniors
Finding Skin Cancer Specialists
Dermatologists and skin cancer specialists provide accurate diagnosis and treatment options tailored to each patient’s condition.
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Finding cancer specialists and care teams for seniors
Cancer diagnosis and testing support for seniors
Diagnosis of Skin Cancer
Diagnosis typically involves a skin exam and may include a biopsy to determine if the cells are cancerous and identify the cancer type.
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Cancer diagnosis and testing support for seniors
Medical illustration of cancer treatment options for seniors – All Seniors Foundation
Treatments for Skin Cancer
Depending on the type and stage, treatment options may include surgical removal, topical medications, cryotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy.
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Medical illustration of cancer treatment options for seniors – All Seniors Foundation
Infographic showing statistics and survival rates for adrenal cancer in older adults.
Skin Cancer Statistics
Skin cancer is highly common, especially among fair-skinned individuals. When detected early, survival rates for most types are very high.
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Infographic showing statistics and survival rates for adrenal cancer in older adults.
Cancer support hug between a senior cancer survivor and caregiver at All Seniors Foundation in Los Angeles.
Ongoing Care & Support for Skin Cancer
Long-term follow-up is important to monitor for recurrence or new cancers. Support groups and educational resources can help with emotional and physical recovery.
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Cancer support hug between a senior cancer survivor and caregiver at All Seniors Foundation in Los Angeles.

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If you’re unsure about your options or need guidance on the right care, our specialists are here to assist you. Whether you have questions about screenings, treatments, or support services, we’re just a call away.

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