What Are The Most Common Types Of Cancer?

Skin Cancer

Of all cancers, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in the United States. It is estimated that around six million cases of all types of skin cancer are diagnosed annually in the United States. Approximately ninety-seven thousand new cases of melanoma are diagnosed each year in the United States, and about 7,500 deaths are attributed to melanoma annually. An individual who has a familial or personal history involving melanoma is at an increased risk of developing this form of deadly skin cancer. Excessive exposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun and indoor tanning are known to be the most common causes of all skin cancers.

Skin cancer is the most preventable type of cancer. Awareness of skin growths that appear to be new or exhibit changes in shape, color, or size can help increase the chances of early detection. Patients who develop skin cancer will experience symptoms such as a skin lesion that will not heal, changes of mole color, changes in mole shape, changes in mole size, new skin growth that changes significantly within a couple of months, and a skin lesion with a growing lump. Diagnosis is made with a physical exam and skin tissue biopsy. Treatment for skin cancer consists of freezing off skin cancer spots, surgically removing skin cancer spots, topical cancer-killing ointments, radiation therapy, and in some cases, sentinel lymph node removal.