Health Insurance and Melanoma Skin Cancer

What are Melanoma and Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer?

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, skin cancer is a significant global health issue with increasing cases. Excessive sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer and a history of sunburns are significant contributing factors to the development of skin cancer.There are several types of skin cancer, and they are broadly categorised into two main groups: melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Here are the main types within each category:

Melanoma Skin Cancer

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer originating in the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin. It is considered the most serious form of skin cancer and is one of the most common cancer types. Melanoma is often linked to exposure to sun ultraviolet (UV) radiation, though factors like family history can also be the case.

There are several types of melanoma, and they are categorized based on their characteristics and where they occur. The main types include:

• Cutaneous Melanoma- The most common type, originating in the skin.
• Ocular Melanoma– Developing in the eye, specifically in melanocytes within the uvea.
• Mucosal Melanoma–  Occurring in mucous membranes, such as those lining the respiratory, digestive, and genitourinary tracts.

Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancer refers to types of skin cancer that do not originate in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. These cancers usually develop in the top layers of the skin and are commonly associated with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Non-melanoma skin cancers are generally less aggressive than melanoma.

The two main types of non-melanoma skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

• Basal Cell Carcinoma– Arising in the basal cells at the bottom of the epidermis. It is the most common type.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma– Developing in the squamous cells in the upper layers of the epidermis. It is the second most common type.

It’s important to note that each type of skin cancer may have different characteristics, risk factors, and treatments. Early detection through regular skin checks and seeking medical advice for any unusual changes in the skin is crucial for successful treatment. Sun protection measures, such as using sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure, play a key role in preventing various types of skin cancers.

Warning Signs that May Indicate Melanoma.

Warning signs for melanoma include:

• Asymmetrical Shape. Moles with halves that look different.
• Changes in Color. Growth with multiple colours or unusual colour patterns.
• Changes in Size. New growth in a mole larger than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimetres).
• Changes in Symptoms. New itchiness or bleeding.
• Unusual Border. Moles with unusual, notched, or scalloped borders.

Melanomas can vary in appearance and some may exhibit all these changes, while others may show only a few.

Risk of Developing Melanoma

Several factors may increase your risk of developing melanoma, including:

Family History

A family history of melanoma, especially among close relatives like parents, children, or siblings, increases the likelihood of developing melanoma.

Sunburn History

One or more instances of severe, blistering sunburns can raise the risk of melanoma.

UV Light Exposure

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun, tanning lights, and beds heightens the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

Abundance of Moles

Having more than 50 typical moles on the body suggests an increased risk. Additionally, typical moles, medically known as dysplastic nevi, which are larger and may have irregular borders and mixed colours, contribute to the risk.

Geographical Location

Living closer to the equator or at higher elevations exposes individuals to more direct sun rays and increased UV light, elevating the risk of melanoma.

Sun-sensitive Skin

Individuals with skin that sunburns easily, particularly those with white skin, blond or red hair, light-coloured eyes, and a tendency to freckle or sunburn easily, are more susceptible to developing melanoma.

Weakened Immune System

A compromised immune system due to medications or illnesses can heighten the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers. This includes individuals on immune-suppressing medications post-organ transplant and those with conditions like HIV that weaken the immune system.

What is Hidden Melanoma?

Melanomas can develop in parts of the body that get little to no sun exposure. These areas include spaces between toes, palms, soles, scalp, or genitals. They are often called “hidden melanomas” as they occur in places that people might not think to check. In individuals with darker skin colour, these melanomas are more likely to appear in less noticeable areas.

Mucosal melanoma forms in the mucous membrane, a tissue that covers the inside of the nose, mouth, oesophagus, anus, urinary tract and vagina. Detecting mucosal melanomas is tricky because they can be easily confused with more typical health issues.

Ocular melanoma typically manifests in the uvea, the layer of tissue beneath the white part of the eye. This melanoma of the eye can lead to changes in vision and may be identified through a comprehensive eye examination.

Acral-lentiginous melanoma, a rare type of melanoma, may develop beneath a fingernail or toenail. It can also appear on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet. This melanoma variant is characterized by its very dark, flat appearance and distinctive, irregular borders.

Preventive Measures for Melanoma

Let’s find out how to decrease the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers:

• Skip tanning lamps and beds as they emit harmful UV light, increasing skin cancer risk.
• Avoid midday sun exposure; opt for outdoor activities in the morning or evening.
• Keep an eye on your skin for any changes in moles, freckles, or growths.
• Check all body parts, even hidden areas, regularly for skin changes.
• Wear protective clothing, like dark, tightly woven outfits, a broad-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Use sunscreen daily with at least SPF 30, even on cloudy days; reapply every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating.

How Is Melanoma Diagnosed?

To diagnose melanoma, a physical exam and biopsy are common. A punch biopsy, using a circular blade, or an excisional biopsy, cutting away the entire mole, may be done. The cancer’s stage is then determined by assessing thickness under a microscope.

Thicker melanomas may require additional tests. A sentinel node biopsy checks if cancer has reached nearby lymph nodes. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs help identify cancer spread. Factors like ulceration and mitotic rate impact the risk of spread.

Stages range from 0 to 4, with higher stages indicating more extensive cancer and challenging treatments, including potential spread to organs.

How is Melanoma Treated?

Your melanoma treatment often begins with surgery to remove the cancer, with factors like the cancer stage, your health, and preferences influencing decisions. A thin melanoma may be removed entirely during the biopsy, requiring no further treatment.

• Surgery is commonly used for small melanomas, while deeper ones may involve additional treatments to ensure complete removal.
• Radiotherapy, using energy beams, targets lymph nodes or unresectable melanomas.
• Immunotherapy boosts your immune system to combat cancer cells, often used post-surgery or directly injected into melanomas.
• Targeted therapy attacks specific cancer cell chemicals based on testing.
• Chemotherapy, including isolated limb perfusion, may be considered when other treatments aren’t effective.

Will My Health Insurance Policy Cover Melanoma?

Private health insurance in the UK allows you to access private treatment for melanoma to diagnose it, it also covers treatments even if you are already diagnosed through NHS. Many insurers include cancer treatments in comprehensive policies, covering private medical costs.

Some policies offer an NHS cash benefit if you opt for public treatment. Ensure you understand your policy’s cover, as it typically includes cancer-related treatment but may not cover the initial diagnosis. Inpatient and day-patient care are usually standard, while outpatient care may be optional.

Full cancer cover may extend to secondary cancers, pain relief, and palliative treatment, including end-of-life care at home. Also, with providers like the Exeter, you have the choice to opt for a second opinion. This provides you with reassurance regarding your diagnosis and allows you to make decisions about your treatments.

How Can I start to claim for treatments?

If you notice changes in your skin or have concerns, claiming for diagnostics and treatments through your policy involves a few simple steps:

• Obtain a referral from your GP.
• Contact your insurance provider after receiving the referral.
• Confirm with your provider that your claim aligns with policy terms.
• Choose a hospital or clinic for diagnostics.
• Inform your provider if additional tests or treatment are required or if there are changes in the hospital or specialist.

Speak to a Broker

Before you buy health insurance, it’s a good idea to speak to a broker, especially about cancer cover, which can be complicated. Make sure you know if you have a comprehensive cover or a limited one. Your broker can help you find out if a specific type of cancer will be covered, even if it’s not related to one you already have, by checking with the insurance company’s underwriting team.

At PremierPMI, our insurance specialists not only discover the best policy for you but also assist you in navigating the claims process if you encounter any challenges

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