Skin Cancer

Skin cancer occurs when normal cells on the skin turn into abnormal ones, and it is the most common cancer in the United States.  It is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in his or her lifetime.  More than 8500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every day.  

While those with lighter skin are definitely more susceptible, anyone can get skin cancer.  The two most common forms of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are highly treatable; however, treatment can be costly and disfiguring at times.  Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, and it is the type that is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths.

Just like it is known that tobacco causes lung cancer, it is well-known that cumulative ultraviolet (UV) light exposure causes skin cancer.  UV rays come from the sun, from tanning beds, and from sun lamps.  Despite this knowledge, unfortunately an an alarmingly high number of young adults still engage in indoor tanning, which not only increases their risk of skin cancer, but also prematurely ages the skin.  

Dermatologists are passionate about prevention and early detection.  Start getting your annual skin examinations today.