Melanoma and Other Skin Cancers
Skin cancer is very common. Skin cancer begins in the outer layer of the skin. The outer layer is called the
epidermis. There are two main types of skin cancer: melanoma and non-melanoma.
Non-melanomas are easier to treat, less dangerous, and more common than melanomas.
Non-melanoma skin cancer is usually either basal cell or squamous
cell type. Basal cells and squamous cells are two types of skin cells.
Melanoma skin cancer begins in the melanocytes. Melanocytes are cells that make
pigment for the skin.
There are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of skin cancer. The best way is to avoid intense sunlight for a long time and to practice sun safety. You can still go outside and exercise while practicing sun safety. For more information on sun exposure as a
risk factor, click
here.
For more information on skin cancer, visit the
National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society.
Other skin cancer resources:
En Español:
Information on skin cancer was adapted from the
National Cancer Institute and the
American Cancer Society.