Crafting a Treatment Plan for Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer With Your Doctor and Healthcare Team

Katie Muhlhammer Disclosures Published on Nov 26, 2024

This article is for people who have nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), or anyone who wants to learn more about NMSC treatments and what to ask your doctor. The goal of this activity is to help you talk with your doctor about your NMSC care.

You will learn about:

What NMSC is
Ways to help manage NMSC through treatment options and lifestyle changes
Discussing treatment goals with your healthcare team
Working together to find the treatment plan for you
Importance of quality of life
Questions to ask your doctor and healthcare team

Certain medicines listed may not be approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for [indication] but are recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN).

Test Your Knowledge

What Is Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC)?

NMSC refers to all skin cancers that are NOT melanoma. It happens when the top layers of the skin get damaged by ultraviolet (UV) rays from being in the sun too much or using tanning beds and sunlamps. Watch this video to learn about the common types of NMSC and treatments available.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Here are some questions you can ask your doctor and healthcare team. Come to each visit prepared with your questions and concerns.

What is the name of the skin cancer I have?
Has it spread to other parts of my body?
What are all of my options; and what are the risks and benefits of each of them?
Will the treatment cure my skin cancer?
What is the recurrence rate (how likely is it that it will come back in the future)?
Will I need to see another doctor for treatment?
How will I get/take the treatment?
What are possible side effects of treatment?
Where can I get additional information?