Skin cancer is the rampant growth of abnormal skin cells. The cause is usually excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, either from sunlight or indoor tanning devices. UV radiation can damage the DNA of skin cells, resulting in mutations (genetic defects). These mutations instruct the abnormal skin cells to multiply at a rapid pace, forming malignant tumors. (2) Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the most common types of skin cancer, tend to develop on parts of the body that get a lot of sun exposure, such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and the backs of the hands. A history of serious sunburns can also raise skin cancer risk. Melanoma is much less prevalent than other types of skin cancer but more dangerous. It, too, is typically related to overexposure to UV radiation, but can also develop because of inherited genetic factors. (3)
Squamous Cells These flat cells are in the outer part of the epidermis. The body continually sloughs off old squamous cells as it makes new ones.Basal Cells These cells start in the base of the epidermis and base of the hair follicle. They mature and become larger as they grow into the upper level of the skin (toward the surface) to become new squamous cells.Melanocytes These cells produce melanin, a pigment that gives skin its brown or tan color. They act as a natural sunscreen, helping protect layers of skin below the epidermis from UV damage.
Basal Cell Carcinoma This cancer accounts for about 80 percent of all cases of skin cancer. It is almost always completely curable, rarely spreading to other parts of the body. Left untreated, however, it can destroy skin, deep tissue, and bone, becoming disfiguring or causing functional problems.Squamous Cell Carcinoma Accounting for about 20 percent of all skin cancers, this carcinoma is also highly treatable. However, it is more likely than basal cell carcinoma to spread. Although metastatic squamous cell cancer is uncommon, it can be life-threatening.Melanoma This form of cancer, which develops in the melanocytes, makes up only about 1 percent of all skin cancers. As with basal and squamous cell carcinomas, it is very curable if diagnosed early. If it is not treated quickly, however, it is more likely than these other skin cancers to metastasize and can prove fatal. (4)
Rare Types of Skin Cancer
The following diseases make up less than 1 percent of all skin cancers.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma This cancer develops in cells found at the base of the epidermis, close to nerve endings. It is very aggressive, with a high risk of metastasizing. (5)Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) A cancer of the cells that line lymph or blood vessels, KS appears as lesions on the skin, inside the mouth, or elsewhere in the body. In the United States, the most common type of KS develops in people who have the HIV virus. (6)Cutaneous (Skin) Lymphoma This cancer starts in white blood cells, called lymphocytes, in the skin. (7)Skin Adnexal Tumors These cancers start in hair follicles or skin glands.Various Types of Sarcomas
How Prevalent Is Skin Cancer?
It’s estimated that in the United States, more than 3.3 million people are diagnosed and treated each year for 5.4 million basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. In a troubling trend, the incidence of all types of cancers has been going up for years. Researchers have found that the number of people receiving a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma more than doubled between the time spans between 1976–1984 and 2000–2010. The incidence of squamous cell carcinoma shot up 263 percent over the same periods. Women had the greatest jump for both basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, with people age 40 and below also showing a disproportionate increase. (1) Melanoma rates are also rising at an alarming pace. From 2008 to 2018, the number of new cases diagnosed annually increased by 53 percent. The popularity of indoor tanning beds may help explain these numbers. Researchers believe that indoor tanning devices may be responsible for more than 419,000 cases of skin cancer in the United States each year: 245,000 basal cell carcinomas, 168,000 squamous cell carcinomas, and 6,200 melanomas. (8)
So You’ve Had Skin Cancer. Now What?
Melanoma survivors may well be expected to be alert for a recurrence, but anyone who’s had any type of skin cancer should remain extra vigilant. This entails being scrupulous about scheduling follow-up visits to the dermatologist (or oncologist), conducting frequent skin self-exams, and limiting UV exposure. If not removed completely, basal cell carcinoma can grow back on the same place on the skin. People who have had basal cell cancer are at higher risk of developing it again in other areas of the skin, too. (4) People with squamous cell carcinoma are also at increased risk for recurrence, especially in the same skin area or nearby. Growths on the nose, ears, and lips pose the highest risks. (9) Studies also suggest that people with basal or squamous cell cancers are at increased risk of developing another type of cancer, particularly melanoma. For women, this risk also includes breast and lung cancer. (10) Learn More About Causes and Risk Factors Learn More About the Types of Skin Cancer Learn More About Melanoma Learn More About the Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer There are also forms of superficial radiation treatment that are effective for skin cancer. Radiation requires multiple treatments but may help patients at high risk for surgical complications. Radiation may also help prevent surgical scarring in some individuals Learn More About Skin Cancer Treatment In addition to providing information about skin cancer prevention, detection, and treatment, the Skin Cancer Foundation’s website has a section called This Is Skin Cancer, where patients share their cancer journeys. American Academy of Dermatology The AAD offers information on various types of skin conditions, including skin cancer. We love that their free resources page provides simple, educational handouts that cover topics like how to select a sunscreen, how to spot a cancerous mole, and more. American Cancer Society The American Cancer Society is a long-time trusted source for cancer information and resources. One cool feature is their Skin Cancer Quiz, which lets you test your knowledge about this common cancer.
Favorite Online Support and Advocacy Networks
National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention This organization offers information on preventing skin cancer and what to do if you’re diagnosed. We love that their Get Involved section has easy ways for you to become an advocate and even write to your Congress rep. Daily Strength Daily Strength’s skin cancer online support groups are a great way to meet and connect with others who’ve been diagnosed with your same cancer.
Favorite App
SkinVision Want to perform high-tech skin checks on your mobile device? With this app, you simply snap a picture of your skin spot, and SkinVision will give you a risk score within 30 seconds. So far, the app has identified more than 27,000 skin cancers.
Favorite Site for Products
Skin Cancer Foundation The Skin Cancer Foundation gives certain products its “seal of recommendation” if they meet specific criteria for effective UV sun protection. You can search for the approved products, including cosmetics, moisturizers, and sunglasses, here.
Favorite Blogs
SkinCancer.Net Get ready to read inspirational stories told by skin cancer survivors and their loved ones. An editorial team also provides informative blogs. You can easily subscribe to the blog to get the latest entries in your inbox. Sun and Skin News This blog, which is featured on the Skin Cancer Foundation’s website, includes true patient stories and other skin-related articles.
Favorite Annual Meetings
World Congress on Cancers of the Skin Since 1983, the Congress has held this meeting, which allows physicians to learn about breakthrough discoveries on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all types of skin cancer. The event is held in a different country every two years and is partly sponsored by the Skin Cancer Foundation. American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting The AAD’s annual meeting brings the brightest minds in dermatology together for a one-of-a-kind educational experience. The latest advances in dermatology, including skin cancer, are discussed in detail.
