EDITORIAL

摘要

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer and is diagnosed more often than colon, lung, breast, and prostate cancer combined. It poses a threat to public health and is an increasing economic burden with a particularly high incidence among fair-skinned populations. Melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) are the two main types of skin cancer. While melanoma only accounts for 4% of all skin cancers, it is the deadliest form and results in 80% of skin cancer-related deaths. NMSC includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which account for approximately 80% and 16%, respectively, of skin cancers. In the United States, there are more than five million new cases of NMSC each year and the incidence is rising. The large majority are caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This increased incidence has been attributed to lifestyle changes that allow for increased time in outdoor activities, a population that is living longer, and increased utilization of artificial UV radiation tanning units for cosmetic purposes.