Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. It accounts for nearly half of all cancers reported.

There are two types of skin cancer: melanoma and nonmelanoma.

Cancers that develop from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin, are called melanoma. Melanomas are much rarer, representing about four percent of skin cancers. Melanomas are generally more serious than nonmelanoma skin cancer. Of the people who ultimately die from their skin cancer, 79 percent have melanoma.

Cancers that develop from other skin cells are called nonmelanoma skin cancer. Nonmelanoma is the most common form of skin cancer. It is almost always cured when found and treated early.