Overview
Finishing skin cancer treatment is a milestone, but recovery continues. Survivorship focuses on prevention, monitoring, and emotional support to help people live well and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Key Points
- Regular follow-up visits are essential.
- Survivors have a higher risk of developing new skin cancers.
- Sun protection is the most effective long-term prevention.
- Emotional health and support networks matter as much as physical recovery.
- Survivorship includes monitoring for late effects of treatment.
Follow-Up Care
- Check-ups: Every 3–12 months depending on your cancer type, stage, and risk factors.
- Skin self-exams: Monthly at home to spot new or changing lesions.
- Specialist care: Dermatology follow-up may be lifelong for high-risk cases.
Reducing Future Risk
- Sun protection: SPF 30+, hats, clothing, shade.
- Avoid tanning beds: Artificial UV is strongly linked to melanoma.
- Lifestyle: Healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking or excess alcohol improve overall health.
Emotional and Practical Support
- Anxiety and fear of recurrence are common.
- Counseling, support groups, or survivorship programs can provide reassurance.
- Family involvement is often key for monitoring and lifestyle support.
FAQ
Q: How often should I have follow-up checks?
A: Every 3–12 months depending on your cancer type and stage.
Q: Can skin cancer come back?
A: Yes, recurrence is possible and survivors are at higher risk for new cancers.
Q: What lifestyle changes help after treatment?
A: Sun safety, healthy habits, and regular self-checks are most important.
Q: Is emotional support important?
A: Yes. Survivorship is both physical and emotional. Support groups and counseling can help manage fear of recurrence.
Further Reading
- Cancer Council Australia — Life After Skin Cancer
- American Cancer Society — Living as a Skin Cancer Survivor