Significance

• According to WebMD, skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the United States, but many of these cancers can be prevented if you take the proper precautions with the sun. Exposure to UV radiation is the most common cause of skin cancer. While most of this radiation comes from direct contact with sunlight, people are also exposed to UV rays when they use tanning beds.
  
  

Types

• Luckily, the most common type of skin cancer is the least serious. According to WebMD, basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers count for 95 percent of all skin cancers. Both of these types are very treatable if caught early. However, UV exposure can also cause melanoma cancer, a very serious type of skin cancer. Melanoma is dangerous because it quickly metastasizes and can spreads to other organs. In order to cure melanoma, it must be identified and treated very early.
  
  

Considerations

• While everyone is at risk for skin cancer when exposed to sun, people with light skin are at a much higher risk, especially those who burn easily. However, light skin isn't the only risk factor for skin cancer. People with a family history of skin cancer, those who work outside and people with many raised and irregular moles should take extra caution when exposing their skin to the sun.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• The best way to prevent skin cancer is to limit your exposure to direct sunlight. Apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 before going out in the sun and cover your skin with clothing if possible. Wear a hat to help keep the sun out of your face. Also, the sun emits its highest level of UV rays between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., so avoid the sun during those hours if possible.
  
  

Treatment

• If you do acquire skin cancer, your doctor will recommend treatment based on the type of cancer, the location of the malignancy and its severity. Treatment can be as simple as removing the skin tumor but for more severe cases, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery may be required.