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Information About Cancer
Skin Cancers

Causes of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), over one million people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every year.  Research has led to better methods of diagnosing and treating this disease. The NCI says skin cancer is now almost 100 percent curable if found early and treated promptly.

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. There are two types - UVA and UVB. Sunlamps and tanning booths which are artificial forms of UV radiation, can also cause skin cancer.

Ultraviolet Radiation

UV Exposure Categories

Effects of UV Exposure

Other Causes and Risk Factors For Skin Cancer

The Genetics of Skin Cancer