Your skin is more than just an outer layer—it is your body’s first line of defense and a reflection of your overall health. While our tropical climate in the Philippines is one of our country’s greatest beauties, the year-round sun exposure also brings a significant health responsibility.

Skin cancer remains a serious concern for many Filipinos. Because of our naturally tanner complexions, many believe they are "immune" to the sun’s damage. However, the reality is that skin cancer does not discriminate, and when it is detected late, it can be life-altering.

The Philippine Context: A Growing Concern

In the Philippines, skin cancer prevalence is often underestimated. While it may not be as frequently discussed as heart disease or diabetes, the incidence of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is notable among those who work outdoors or enjoy an active, sun-drenched lifestyle. Furthermore, melanoma—the most aggressive form of skin cancer—tends to be diagnosed at later stages in Filipino patients, making early detection a literal lifesaver.

Reading Your Skin: What to Look For

Early detection starts at home. We encourage everyone to perform a "skin check" once a month. You are looking for anything new, changing, or unusual.

Keep the ABCDE rule in mind for moles:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.

• Border: Edges are ragged, blurred, or irregular.

• Color: The color is not uniform; it has shades of tan, brown, black, or even red and blue.

• Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

• Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color within a short period of time, or it starts to itch or bleed.

Beyond moles, look for sores that do not heal or "pearly" bumps that look like a pimple but never go away. If you notice any of these, it is time to consult a board-certified dermatologist.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery: The Gold Standard in Treatment of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC)

When skin cancer is diagnosed, the goal is simple: remove the cancer completely while keeping as much healthy skin as possible. This is especially vital for cancers on the face, ears, or hands.

At St. Luke’s Medical Center, we utilize Mohs Micrographic Surgery, a highly specialized technique widely considered the most effective for treating common Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers.
 

How is Mohs Surgery Performed? 

Unlike traditional surgery where a large "buffer" of healthy tissue is removed, Mohs surgery is done in stages:

1. Precise Removal: The surgeon removes the visible tumor along with a very thin layer of surrounding tissue.

2. Immediate Mapping: While the patient waits, the tissue is color-coded and examined under a microscope in an on-site lab.

3. Targeted Clearing: If the surgeon sees cancer cells at the edges, they go back and remove another thin layer only where the cancer remains.

4. Repeat: This process continues until no cancer cells are detected.

5. Repair of Defect: The defect is repaired accordingly. 

The Outcomes 

The benefits of Mohs surgery are unparalleled:

• Highest Cure Rate: It offers a cure rate of up to 99% for new skin cancers.

• Tissue Conservation: It leaves the smallest possible scar by sparing the maximum amount of healthy skin.

Your Health Deserves the Best Care

St. Luke’s Medical Center has paved the way for these advanced dermatological innovations, ensuring that world-class precision is available right here at home.

Don't wait for a "small spot" to become a big problem. Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early.

Is that spot just a freckle, or is it something more? Put your mind at ease. Schedule a consult with our expert dermatologists today. Your skin has protected you for a lifetime—now it’s your turn to protect it.

Schedule a Consultation