Skin cancer: a department to care for cancer patients is needed

The skin cancer is a reality in Burundi. A dermatologist calls upon the Ministry in charge of Public Health to think about setting up a department to care for people suffering from different types of cancer.–By Diane Uwimana

Dr Elie Mupera, a dermatologist: “The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change in the appearance of the skin, such as a new growth on the body or a sore that will not be healed.” ©Iwacu

“The majority of Albinos, people living with HIV and those who have infectious diseases are the most targeted group of skin cancer,” notes Dr Elie Mupera, a dermatologist. He indicates that skin cancer develops most commonly on sun-exposed skin such as the backs of the hands and arms, upper trunk, face, nose, lips, ears, legs, and the hairless scalp. Skin cancers are most common in people with lighter skin tones. Ultraviolet light, which is in sunlight, is the main cause of skin cancer.
The treatment of skin cancer depends on the type and location of the skin cancer, the body scar as well as the age and health of the patient. Medical methods used include curettage and desiccation, surgical excision, radiation and micrographic surgery.

Dr Mupera states that susceptible people should avoid sun exposure this is the best way to lower the risk for all types of skin cancer. Regular surveillance of susceptible individuals, both by self-examination and regular physical examination, is also a good idea for people at higher risk. People who have already had any form of skin cancer should have regular medical checkups.The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change in the appearance of the skin, such as a new growth on the body or a sore that will not be healed.

Skin cancer has a better prognosis or outcome than most of other types of cancer. It is generally curable. Even though most skin cancers are cured, people who have been treated for skin cancer have a higher-than-average risk of developing a new cancer of the skin. “This is the reason why it is very important for patients to continue to examine themselves regularly, visit their doctor for regular checkups and follow their doctor’s instructions on how to reduce their risk of developing skin cancer again,” underlines Dr Mupera.
However, even though the disease is dangerous for the healthy people, there isn’t any institution which cares for the patients here in Burundi.
“The Ministry in charge of Public Health must construct a Department which cares for patients suffering from cancer in general and avail drugs at a cheap price as patients go abroad to look for medicine,” concludes Mupera.