The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that one in five adults will develop some form of skin cancer. The condition can affect you at any age, although the risk increases as you get older. Skin cancer screening is a quick, non-invasive way to put your mind at ease. Yearly screenings can catch potential problems while still easily treatable.Â
What is Skin Cancer?Â
The two most common types of skin cancer are basal and squamous cell carcinomas, both nonmelanoma skin cancers. These slow-growing cancers develop when skin cells in different layers of the skin begin to divide abnormally. Over time, they can become a problem if not treated. Melanoma develops from the skin cells that make pigment. This type of skin cancer is a particular cause for concern because it has a higher risk of spreading and can be dangerous.Â