Most of us have freckles, moles or birthmarks. Most people have a combination of all three. It’s common for people to assume they’d know skin cancer when they saw it. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports about 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. However, 1 in 5 Americans develop the other types of skin cancers, basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, which commonly appears as a scaly, non-healing sore. Early detection is critical when it comes to skin cancer. Skin cancer can take on many shapes, sizes and colors and can appear on any area of the body. Thomas Braza, MD performs professional skin exams on a routine basis. It is a painless and quick visit that could save your life!
