Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. The most common forms are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer. They usually form on areas exposed to the sun like the head, face, neck, hands and arms. Melanoma, a different type of cancer, is more dangerous but less common.

Patients at risk for skin cancer -
• Spend a lot of time in the sun or have been sunburned
• Have fair complexion or light-colored hair and eyes
• Have a family member with skin cancer
• Have actinic (solar) keratosis, an advanced form of skin sun damage
• Are over 50 with a history of sun exposure

You should have any suspicious skin markings and any changes in the way your skin looks examined. Cancer responds best to treatment when it is detected early.  If not treated, some types of skin cancer cells can spread to other tissues and organs.  Most common form of treatment is surgical excision.  Regular use of sunblocks with a SPF of 30 or higher (preferably with zinc oxide), sunglasses, hats, shirts with sleeves and avoiding exposure to sun or tanning beds may prevent formation of skin cancer.