Learning

Why Preventing Skin Cancer Matters

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more new cases each year occurring than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer combined.

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer.

The majority of melanomas are thought to be caused from too much exposure to UV (ultraviolet) light, either from the sun or from artificial sources, like tanning beds.

Melanoma does not discriminate by age, race or gender. It can develop anywhere on the body – eyes, scalp, nails, feet, mouth, etc. Ocular melanoma (melanoma in the eye) and mucosal melanoma (melanoma in the mucous membrane) are not thought to be related to UV exposure. Pediatric melanoma is on the rise by about 2% each year, with 500 children diagnosed each year in the U.S.