Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. But there is good news. Skin cancer has a greater chance of being cured when it’s found and treated early.

We encourage you to spread the word about skin cancer prevention and urge your family and friends to get their skin checked.

Early Detection is Key

Each year in the U.S. over 5.4 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are treated in more than 3.3 million people. It is also the easiest to cure, if diagnosed and treated early. When allowed to progress, however, skin cancer can result in disfigurement and even death.

It is helpful to have a doctor do an initial full-body exam first to assure you that any existing spots, freckles, or moles are normal or treat those that may not be. In between your annual spot-check appointments, you should preform monthly self-examinations. After the first few times, self-examination should take no more than 10 minutes — a small investment in what could be a life-saving procedure.

If you note any change in an existing mole, freckle, or spot or if you find a new one with any of the warning signs of skin cancer, don’t overlook it.

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