Skin cancerWhat it is and how to prevent itSkin cancer is the most common of all cancers. There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. In this presentation I intend to briefly discuss each of these cases and illustrate ways to prevent and treat them. The most common first skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. This cancer develops in the basal or lower layer of the epidermis, which is the top layer of the skin. The cause of this cancer is a gene called patched or PTC, which helps control the growth and development of cells. If this gene is missing, defective, or damaged by ultraviolet radiation, uncontrolled cell proliferation can occur. Basal cell carcinoma usually presents as a small, fleshy bump, most often appearing on the head, neck, or hands. This type of cancer rarely occurs in African Americans, but they are the most common skin cancers found in light-skinned people. These tumors do not spread quickly. It may take months or years for one to reach half an inch in diameter. If left untreated, the cancer may begin to bleed, scab over, heal, and then the cycle repeats. The second most common skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. This cancer develops in the upper layers of the epidermis. Although this cancer is more aggressive than basal cell cancer, it is relatively slow growing and is more likely to spread to other locations, including internal organs. Squamous cell cancer is usually found on the edge of the ear, face, lips and mouth. However, the disease is usually painless, but can become painful with the development of ulcers that do not heal. This cancer often originates from sun-damaged skin and usually begins at age 50. If discovered and treated early and appropriately, the cure rate with dermatological surgery is 95%. The third and deadliest skin cancer is malignant melanoma. This cancer develops in the pigment cells, which are found throughout the basal layer. Although melanoma is almost always treatable if detected early, it is responsible for three-quarters of all skin cancer deaths. Approximately 48,000 new cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Every year approximately 7,700 people die from this disease. Melanoma can appear suddenly without warning, but it can also start in or near a mole or other dark spot on the skin.