Skin Cancer Prevention

About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer, which includes squamous cell cancer, basal cell cancer and melanoma, is the most common cancer in the United States and its incidence is steadily rising. In fact, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Approximately 1.3 million cases of highly curable basal cell and squamous cell cancers will be diagnosed this year. It is estimated that basal cell cancer alone will account for approximately 25% of all newly diagnosed cancers. According to the American Cancer Society's estimates for 2009, the United States is projected to have approximately 68,720 newly diagnosed cases of melanoma, which accounts for nearly 75% of skin cancer deaths, resulting in approximately 8,650 fatalities. Survival rates are much higher when skin cancer is detected and treated early, stressing the importance of self exams and periodic total body exams with a dermatologist.