The two most common kinds of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma accounts for more than 90 percent of all skin cancers in the United States. It is a slow-growing cancer that seldom spreads to other parts of the body. Squamous cell carcinoma also rarely spreads, but it does so more often than basal cell carcinoma.
Another type of skin cancer is melanoma. Melanoma affects the cells that reside in the lowest part of the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin). Early detection and treatment are critical to preventing the cancer from invading other areas of the body.
Skin cancer symptoms include a change on the skin. It can start with a firm, red lump, changes in color, pigment, or growth. It is important to see a doctor if symptoms last longer than two weeks.
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