About the skin and cancer

Cancer and its treatment can damage the skin cells and stop them from working properly. Knowing more about how the skin works and what may affect it can help you care for it better.

Types of skin problems with cancer

Cancer and its treatment can affect the skin in different ways, causing problems such as itching, sweating or pressure sores (sore skin).

Dealing with itching

Itching can be a side effect of cancer treatment or the cancer itself. Knowing what can cause itching and how to treat and manage it can help you cope better.

Dealing with sweating

Sweating can be a cancer symptom or may be due to cancer treatment. Knowing what can cause sweating and how to treat and manage it can help you cope better.

Dealing with pressure sores (sore skin)

Pressure sores are wounds that develop when constant pressure or friction on one area of the body damages the skin. There are ways to prevent and treat them.

Resources and support

There are lots of organisations, support groups and helpful books to help you cope with symptoms and side effects caused by cancer and its treatment.

Last reviewed: 
09 May 2023
Next review due: 
09 May 2026