Melanoma risks and advanced surgical treatments highlighted in Brazil

A new study from the Cancer Foundation highlights that melanoma is not limited to the skin. While less frequent, extracutaneous melanoma—occurring in the eyes, mucous membranes, and internal organs of the genital and digestive systems—is more aggressive and lethal due to a higher risk of metastasis.

In Brazil, non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common type, with an estimated 220,490 new cases annually, representing approximately 31.3% of all cancer diagnoses according to the National Cancer Institute (INCA).

Medical experts are emphasizing the importance of Mohs micrographic surgery to improve cure rates. While conventional surgery analyzes only 2% to 5% of tumor margins, Mohs surgery can achieve a 99% cure rate by allowing for precise, real-time analysis of tissue. However, access to this technique in Brazil remains limited due to the rigorous training and accreditation required by the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.