The incidence of non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancer has increased in recent decades. Currently, 2-3,000,000 non-melanoma and about 130,000 melanoma skin cancers occur worldwide yearly. 1 in 3 cancers diagnosed is skin cancer.

As the ozone layer is affected, our atmosphere loses its protective function, and more UV radiation reaches the globe’s surface. Specialists estimate that a decrease of 10% in the ozone layer will lead to an additional ~300,000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer and ~5,000 cases of melanoma skin cancer. The overall incidence of melanoma continues to rise – however, the main factors that predispose to its development seem to be related to sun exposure and the history of sunburn.

Anyone can develop skin cancer, unfortunately. However, the risk is higher for people who:

• have light and freckled skin, especially if the skin burns quickly;
• have red or blond hair and blue or green eyes;
• have a history of high sun exposure and other sources of UV radiation such as tanning beds;
• have a weakened immune system;
• have a lot of moles on their skin;
• have a family or personal history of skin cancer;
• have other skin conditions.

If you are in one of these risk categories or have skin lesions or moles that have changed, you should consider getting a yearly skin cancer check, and visiting one of the best dermatologist by looking for best MOHS surgeon near me for the best treatments available.