Skin Cancer

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Basic Facts

Skin cancer has risen in the United States over the last several decades. This has happened because of more exposure to the sun and to a higher number of older adults. 

About half of all Americans will have a skin cancer before they reach age 65. Every year, more than 2 million cases of all types of skin cancer are identified in the U.S. Some people are diagnosed with skin cancer more than once.

Some types of skin cancer are minor problems and do not typically spread—for example, basal cell carcinoma. Nine out of 10 skin cancers are this type. Other types of skin cancer are more aggressive, and can spread and cause death.

The best ways to monitor your skin are to:

  • Get a yearly skin check by a healthcare professional
  • Be alert to any skin changes and report them to a healthcare professional

Common Types of Skin Cancer

The three most common types of skin cancer are:

  • Basal cell carcinoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma
  • Melanoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer in the United States. It rarely causes death.

This type of cancer starts in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). In most cases, it grows slowly and does not spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Basal cell carcinoma needs treatment because it can destroy underlying tissues and bone.

Three subtypes of basal cell carcinoma are:

  • Nodular (small rounded lump)
  • Superficial (on the surface)
  • Pigmented (has color). Sometimes this type can look like melanoma, which is a much more dangerous cancer.  

Squamous Cell Cancer

Squamous cell cancer is the second most common skin cancer. It develops in:

  • Flat cells on the skin surfaces that have had regular exposure to the sun for long periods of time
  • Wounds that take a very long time to heal
  • Scars from burns or radiation

This type of skin cancer is more harmful than basal cell skin cancer. The risk of spreading to other parts of the body is low.   

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It has the greatest risk of spreading to other parts of the body. These parts include the brain, lungs, and intestines. 

Melanomas begin in melanocytes, the specialized cells in your skin that produce melanin (skin color). The colored growths are unusual. They can have uneven borders and colors.

If caught early, almost all melanomas can be cured. They are difficult to treat in later stages.

 

Last Updated May 2023

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