3 Types of Skin Cancer

Cleveland Clinic2 minutes read

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US, with over 207,000 new cases of melanoma in 2021. One in five Americans develop non-melanoma skin cancer by age 70 due to overexposure to sunlight and UV rays, manifesting as new or changing spots on the skin, such as moles or rough patches.

Insights

  • Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is alarmingly prevalent in the United States, affecting a significant portion of the population due to UV exposure. The distinct types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, each present unique characteristics and risks, emphasizing the importance of early detection and medical consultation upon noticing any irregular skin changes.
  • Regular monitoring of skin spots and moles for changes in size, shape, or color is crucial in identifying potential signs of skin cancer, prompting early intervention and treatment. Seeking medical advice promptly upon observing sudden alterations in skin spots can significantly impact the prognosis and management of skin cancer, underscoring the significance of proactive skin health practices in reducing the impact of this prevalent disease.

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Recent questions

  • What is the most common form of cancer in the United States?

    Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with over 207,000 new cases of melanoma diagnosed in 2021.

  • What are the signs of skin cancer?

    Skin cancer manifests as new or changing spots on the skin, resembling moles, non-healing pimples, or rough patches.

  • What are the three main types of skin cancer?

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

  • What should I do if I notice abnormal skin spots suddenly?

    If any abnormal skin spots are noticed suddenly, it is advised to consult a doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

  • What are the risks associated with skin cancer?

    Risks of skin cancer increase with overexposure to sunlight and UV rays, with one in five Americans developing non-melanoma skin cancer by age 70.

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Summary

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Skin Cancer: Common, Deadly, Detect Early

  • Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with over 207,000 new cases of melanoma diagnosed in 2021. One in five Americans develop non-melanoma skin cancer by age 70, with risks increasing thereafter due to overexposure to sunlight and UV rays. Skin cancer manifests as new or changing spots on the skin, resembling moles, non-healing pimples, or rough patches. Signs of skin cancer include sudden appearance of new spots or growths, as well as moles that change in size, color, or shape over time. The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, which appears as small, smooth bumps with a pearly or waxy feel on the face, ears, or neck, and as flat pink, red, or brown spots on the arms, legs, or torso; squamous cell carcinoma, which can be a firm, red nodule or a rough, scaly flat lesion that may hurt, bleed, or become crusty; and melanoma, accounting for 1% of skin cancers but being one of the deadliest forms, growing rapidly and potentially spreading to lymph nodes or internal organs, often appearing as irregularly shaped or colored brown patches or bumps, with about one third developing from normal moles. If any abnormal skin spots are noticed suddenly, it is advised to consult a doctor for further evaluation and guidance.
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