Primary prevention

Prevention of basal cell carcinomas includes avoidance of exposure to ultraviolet light, x-rays, and arsenic. Primary care counseling can increase sun-protective behaviors and decrease indoor tanning.[41][42]

Secondary prevention

Patients should be advised to use a sunscreen and protective garments and devices, or to stay out of the sun.[44][99]​ However, solar damage is sufficiently advanced in most cases such that this will not prevent emergence of new basal cell carcinomas (BCCs).

Early detection and removal effectively prevents further complications.[100] Chemoprevention utilizing oral nicotinamide or capecitabine may be beneficial for high-risk patients.[101][102]

A hedgehog pathway inhibitor may be used in the management of basal cell nevus syndrome to reduce tumor load and new occurrence of BCC.[60]

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