In the United States, more than a million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year. And it’s the most common cancer in the country.
Unfortunately, many people aren’t aware that in the US, skin cancer is most common.
There are many types of skin cancer, and it’s crucial to have the correct knowledge so you can get it checked if you suspect it. Read on to learn which type of skin cancer is the most common in the US.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are different types of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma are non-melanoma skin cancer types. It is usually found on the head, neck, or hands and is most often caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
It’s usually not life-threatening but can be disfiguring. People with light skin are at greater risk for nonmelanoma skin cancer, but it can occur in people with any skin color.
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It is usually found on the arms, legs, or trunk and is often caused by exposure to UV light or by having a family history of melanoma.
Which Type of Skin Cancer is the Most Common?
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80 percent of all skin cancer cases. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 20 percent of all skin cancer cases.
Melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 1 percent of all skin cancer cases.
Causes of Skin Cancer
The main cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or other sources, such as tanning beds. People who have fair skin that burns easily are at the greatest risk. The risk of skin cancer goes up as people get older.
People who have had skin cancer have a higher chance of getting it again. Damage to the skin’s DNA can cause skin cancer. The DNA repair process is not perfect, and sometimes it can’t fix all the damage. The DNA changes that can lead to skin cancer can be passed on to future generations.
How to Protect Yourself from Skin Cancer?
The best way to protect yourself from skin cancer is to practice safe sun exposure. This means wearing sunscreen, staying in the shade, and avoiding sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 am-2 pm to avoid sunburns.
Sunburning through clothing can also happen. Clothing that is wet from swimming or sweating can increase the amount of UV radiation that reaches your skin. If you are going to be in the sun for an extended period, be sure to wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible or those made of materials that can protect you from UV rays.
You Can Still Have Fun Under the Sun, Just Stay Protected!
After reading this article, you now know which type of skin cancer is the most common and how you can protect yourself. You can still have fun under the sun, but it is important to be aware of the different types of skin cancer so you can take precautions to prevent them.
If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin, be sure to see a doctor right away.
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