BACKGROUND. The incidence of skin cancer is increasing at an alarming
rate. OBJECTIVE. TO discuss current epidemiologic data concerning the
incidence, morbidity, environmental influences, predisposing, host con
ditions, precursor lesions, and prevention of melanoma and nonmelanoma
(basal and squamous cell) skin cancer. METHODS. The current literatur
e was reviewed in order to provide current epidemiologic data for mela
noma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). R
ESULTS. Skin cancer is exceedingly common and the incidence is rising
rapidly. Although the mortality rate for nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC
) is decreasing, that of melanoma is increasing. Both NMSC and melanom
a are associated with significant morbidity. Whereas chronic sun expos
ure is the main cause of NMSC, the development of melanoma appears to
be related to intense, intermittent sun exposure. Ozone depletion has
contributed to rising incidence rates of both NMSC and melanoma. In co
ntrast to NMSC, there is not a direct relationship between ultraviolet
radiation and melanoma. Genetic susceptibility significantly increase
s the lifetime risk of acquiring melanoma. There is no precursor lesio
n for BCC. Precursor lesions for invasive SCC include actinic keratose
s and SCC in situ. Melanoma may arise from benign nevi and dysplastic
nevi. Prevention of melanoma and NMSC is extremely important since pro
gnosis improves with early detection. Prevention may be achieved by ed
ucating patients and physicians how to detect skin cancers early and b
y decreasing or eliminating exposure to ultraviolet light. CONCLUSION.
The incidence of skin cancer has reached epidemic proportions. Only t
hrough heroic efforts by health care professionals and the general pub
lic to prevent the development or progression of skin cancer will this
epidemic be abated.