Prevention and Control of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, affecting 5 million individuals each year. The two most common types of skin cancer—basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas—are highly curable, but can be disfiguring and costly. Melanoma, the third most common skin cancer, is the deadliest kind of skin cancer, resulting in more than 9,000 deaths each year. Most cases of skin cancer are preventable, but despite efforts to address risk factors, skin cancer rates have continued to increase in the United States and worldwide.

The most preventable cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light either from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds. Rates of sunburn remain high, affecting one-third of Americans each year as a result of overexposure to UV rays. Indoor tanning is especially dangerous, resulting in an estimated 400,000 cases of skin cancer in the U.S. each year. Skin cancer is a serious public health concern and it will take a comprehensive approach, involving healthcare providers, community partners, and business and government leaders working together to provide individuals with the information they need to reduce UV exposure and promote policies that advance the national goal of preventing skin cancer.

In this session of Grand Rounds our esteemed panel discussed the prevention and control of skin cancer, with particular attention to how we all can help people protect their skin and their lives while enjoying the outdoors.