For any disease, early intervention makes a big difference for full recovery. Skin cancer is not an exception on this. The earlier stage you detect  the better chances of surviving on this disease. There are five stages of skin cancer: stage 0 to IV. On earlier stages, there are almost 100% chance of survival and a full upturn.  When the cancer reaches stage III, the survival rate drops to 60%.  In stage IV, it drops again to 16 % which equally means the skin cancer is 84% fatal. 

This is commonly develops on the epidermis, or the outer layer of the skin, so it is visible. Typically, it shows and develops on the skin which is exposed under the sun, although it doesn't mean that the other areas of the skin are not likely to develop skin cancerous cells. 

On the early stage of skin cancer, the cancer cells are still confined with the skin and have not reached other organs, ligaments or bones yet. That's why upon treatment during these stages, there is lesser risk of fatality.     

On stage 0 also called as carcinoma in situ, abnormal cells are shown on the skin about the same size of a pea.  Though, these abnormal cells are not cancerous yet, but the cells will spread out to its nearby tissues and later can progress into cancer.  

Cancer is formed on stage I. A tumor or lesion of about 2 centimeters or about the size of a peanut is evident.  For melanoma, the most fatal type of skin cancer, the tumor has about 2 millimeters thickness.  If the cancerous lesion or tumor becomes larger than two centimeters diameter, but the cancer hasn't gone beyond the skin, the cancer now arrives on stage II. And on this point, the cancer cells are about to invade the other tissues. 

Surgery is the lone treatment to cure this. It is advised that everyone should assess themselves regularly for any unusual spots, moles, lesions, patches, sores, wounds that haven't heal for quite a while or any skin abnormalities. Be aware for any skin changes. If you are suspicious, consult it to your health provider immediately. 

Skin cancer cells multiply rapidly. On later stage, they will attack nearby tissues, lymph vessels, veins and capillaries and travel to different parts of the body. Quick response and early intervention is the key to stop the cancer cells from spreading.  So, don't wait and act now!