Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. In the United States, more than 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year. Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells. It can occur anywhere on the body, but is most commonly found on the face, neck, and hands. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for more than 80% of all skin cancer cases. It is most often found on the face, neck, and hands. Basal cell carcinoma typically appears as a small, round, or oval-shaped growth that is flesh-colored or whitish. It may also appear as a brown or black patch. Basal cell carcinoma usually grows slowly and does not spread to other parts of the body.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 20% of all skin cancer cases. It is most often found on the face, neck, and hands. Squamous cell carcinoma typically appears as a firm, red, or scaly patch. It may also appear as a raised growth with a crusted surface. Squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other parts of the body, but this is uncommon.
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It accounts for less than 5% of all skin cancer cases, but is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths. Melanoma typically appears as a dark brown or black growth that is larger than a quarter inch in diameter. It may also appear as a small, dark brown or black spot. Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body, but this is uncommon.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. It is usually caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Skin cancer can be prevented by avoiding sun exposure, using sunscreen, and wearing protective clothing. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically appears as a small, pink or red growth on the skin. Squamous cell carcinoma typically appears as a scaly growth on the skin. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It typically appears as a dark brown or black growth on the skin. If you notice any changes in your skin, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
How can I avoid skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. More than 3.5 million skin cancers in over two million people are diagnosed annually.
There are three major types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common, and they are also the most treatable. Melanoma is the least common but most dangerous type of skin cancer.
Skin cancer can be prevented by avoiding exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation comes from the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps. It damages the DNA in skin cells and can lead to skin cancer.
The best way to protect yourself from UV radiation is to:
• Stay in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear clothing that covers your skin, including a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt, and long pants.
• Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps.
If you notice anything unusual on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer can often be found early and treated successfully.
How can I protect myself against melanoma?
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. More than 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year.
There are two main types of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It can spread to other parts of the body and is difficult to treat. Non-melanoma skin cancer is not as serious as melanoma, but it can still be harmful.
There are several things you can do to protect yourself from skin cancer:
Wear sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming.
Stay out of the sun: Avoid being in the sun during the middle of the day, when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
Wear protective clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat when you are in the sun.
Check your skin regularly: Check your skin for changes, such as new moles or growths, or changes in existing moles. If you see anything unusual, see a doctor right away.
Get regular skin cancer screenings: If you are age 50 or older, or if you have a family history of skin cancer, you should get a skin cancer screening every year.