The
Burden of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is
the most common form of cancer in the United States. The three major
types of skin cancer are the highly curable basal cell and squamous
cell carcinomas and the more serious malignant melanoma. The American
Cancer Society estimates that during 2003, about 1 million new cases
of basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma and about 54,200 new cases
of malignant melanoma will be diagnosed. It is also expected that
skin cancer will claim the lives of approximately 9,800 Americans.
Exposure to the
sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays appears to be the most important environmental
factor involved in the development of skin cancer. When used consistently,
sun-protective practices can prevent skin cancer. UV rays from artificial
sources of light, such as tanning beds and sunlamps, are as dangerous
as those from the sun and should also be avoided. Although both tanning
and burning can increase a person's risk for skin cancer, most Americans
do not consistently protect themselves from UV rays. A recent survey
sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
found that approximately 43% of white children under age 12 had at
least one sunburn during the past year.
