Skin Cancer

An estimated 90% of nonmelanoma skin cancers—which include basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)—are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, primarily from the sun and, to a lesser extent, from tanning beds and other artificial sources of UV light. Approximately 86% to 90% of melanomas are attributed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, including both natural sunlight and artificial sources such as tanning beds.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, affecting about 3 million Americans each year, typically individuals in their mid-60s. It occurs most often in people with fair skin and usually develops on areas that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the face, nose, eyelids, neck, and chest. BCC tends to grow slowly, which allows time for early detection and treatment. While it rarely spreads to other parts of the body (metastasizes), it can still grow deeply and damage nearby tissues if left untreated.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer and often appears on sun-exposed areas of the body. However, in people with darker skin tones, SCC can also develop in areas that are not typically exposed to the sun. SCC accounts for approximately 20% of all skin cancers and is the most common type found in African Americans. Individuals who have had one SCC are at higher risk of developing another. Other risk factors include a family history of SCC or melanoma. Fortunately, most SCCs can be effectively treated and cured with surgical removal.

Melanoma is a serious and potentially life-threatening type of skin cancer that begins in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. While most melanomas develop on the skin, they can also appear in the mucous membranes and the eyes (ocular melanoma), which is the most common cancer of the eye.
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In 2024, melanoma accounted for approximately 1% of all skin cancer cases in the United States. Despite its relatively low incidence compared to other skin cancers, melanoma is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths due to its aggressive nature and potential to spread to other parts of the body.​

Although melanoma can occur at any age, the risk increases with age. Older men, especially those over 65, have the highest rates of melanoma diagnosis and melanoma-related deaths.

Melanoma is relatively more common in individuals aged 15 to 29 compared to other types of cancer in that age group. While melanoma is not the most common skin cancer overall, it is the most common form of cancer among young adults, particularly young women between the ages of 20 and 29.

In women, the most common body areas for melanoma to develop are the arms and legs, particularly the lower legs. In contrast, men more commonly develop melanoma on the trunk, head, and neck. These gender differences in melanoma location are thought to reflect differences in clothing habits, patterns of sun exposure, and possibly biological factors.

Regardless of gender or body site, it is important for individuals to perform regular skin self-examinations and see Dr. Newsome for any suspicious skin changes. Early detection remains key to successful treatment of melanoma.