Facts and Statistics About Skin Cancer

	Who Is at Risk? Although anyone can get skin cancer, individuals with certain risk factors are particularly at risk. Some risk factors for skin cancer are Lighter natural skin color Family history of skin cancer Personal history of skin cancer Constant exposure to the sun through work and play A history of sunburns early in life Skin that burns, freckles, gets red easily, or becomes painful in the sun Blue or green eyes Blond or red hair Certain types and a large number of moles

The number of skin cancer cases has increased in the United States. More than 1 million cases of basal cell or squamous cell cancer will be diagnosed annually. The most serious form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, is expected to be diagnosed in 55,100 persons in 2004.¹ Since 1981, the incidence of melanoma has increased a little less than 3 percent per year. Melanoma is the most common cancer among people 25 to 29 years old.

The three major types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas can cause substantial illness and, if untreated, can cause considerable damage and disfigurement. If detected and treated early, however, these carcinomas have a cure rate of more than 90%

Malignant melanoma causes more than 75% of all deaths from skin cancer. This disease can spread to other organs, most commonly the lungs and liver. Malignant melanoma diagnosed at an early stage usually can be cured, but melanoma diagnosed at a late stage is more likely to spread and cause death.

Exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays appears to be the most important environmental factor in developing skin cancer. This makes skin cancer a largely preventable disease when sun protective practices and behaviors are consistently applied and utilized. UV radiation is also a factor in the development of lip cancer, making sun protection even more important. UV rays from artificial sources of light, such as tanning beds and sun lamps are just as dangerous as those from the sun, and should also be avoided. Unfortunately, despite the fact that both tanning and burning can increase one's risk of skin cancer, most Americans do not protect themselves from UV rays.

¹Source: Cancer Facts and Figures 2004, American Cancer Society, 2004.

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Page last reviewed: Monday, April 05, 2004

United States Department of Health and Human Services
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