Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: A Growing Problem in the Elderly Population
A special issue of Cancers (ISSN 2072-6694). This special issue belongs to the section "Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 21 May 2026 | Viewed by 6
Special Issue Editors
Interests: skin cancer; NMSC treatment; NMSC diagnosis
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) represent the most common group of skin malignancies worldwide, primarily comprising basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Less common but clinically significant entities include Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), sebaceous carcinoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and cutaneous B- or T-cell lymphomas. These cancers typically arise in areas of the skin exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds.
Several risk factors contribute to NMSC development, including advanced age, fair skin, prior radiation exposure, immunosuppression, and a family history of cancer. Recent research has highlighted the involvement of diverse pathogenetic mechanisms, such as prostaglandin signaling, polo-like kinase 4 activity, chymase gene polymorphisms, and the role of prostanoid and angiotensin receptors. Emerging evidence also points to the potential influence of the skin and gut microbiome in modulating immune defense and tumor progression.
The incidence of NMSC has been steadily increasing, particularly across European and North American populations. Importantly, certain subtypes, such as SCC and MCC, can exhibit aggressive behavior and metastatic potential, posing a serious clinical challenge.
Treatment options for NMSC range from local interventions—including surgical excision, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and photodynamic therapy—to systemic approaches such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Early detection and prompt intervention remain critical for achieving optimal clinical outcomes.
This Special Issue aims to bring together cutting-edge research and comprehensive reviews on the epidemiology, molecular mechanisms, diagnostic advances, microbiome interactions, and emerging therapies in NMSC. Contributions exploring novel biomarkers, therapeutic targets, immunological aspects, and clinical management strategies are particularly encouraged.
We highly welcome the submission of original research articles and comprehensive reviews that address key aspects of non-melanoma skin cancers. Topics of particular interest include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Innovative methods for early and precise diagnosis of NMSC;
- Pathomechanisms of tumor development and progression, supported by research and clinical studies;
- Emerging therapeutic strategies and novel treatment approaches for NMSC;
- Epidemiological studies highlighting trends, risk factors, and public health implications;
- Unique or challenging clinical case studies offering new insights into disease presentation or management.
This Special Issue aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and advance knowledge that can improve early detection, targeted treatment, and clinical outcomes for patients with non-melanoma skin cancers.
We look forward to receiving your contribution.
Prof. Dr. Jolanta Jaworek
Dr. Dariusz Kowalczyk
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- NMSC
- pathomechanism of NMSC
- NMSC and gut and/or skin microbiota
- NMSC treatment
- NMSC diagnosis
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