Cancer occurs when damage to DNA causes genetic changes or mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell division. Agents known as carcinogens cause DNA damage to cells resulting in tumor development. For example, tobacco, UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds are considered carcinogens. The body repairs much of the

damaged DNA, but some damage may remain, especially with repeated and cumulated UV radiation exposure.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world with ~ 3 million new skin cancer cases diagnosed yearly in the US. There are two main types of skin cancers: non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) and melanoma. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) or Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) are most common type of NMSC. NMSC are caused by the abnormal growth of skin stem cells in the epidermis due to exposure to harmful levels of UV that lead to the accumulation of DNA Damage induced genetic changes or mutations. This abnormal growth can, in turn, cause the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form tumors. This process takes many years to happen, but persistent sun damage to skin can accelerate cancer formation. Similarly, melanocytes in the skin can become damaged and accumulate mutations that promote their transformation into melanoma. Melanomas count for 5% of skin cancers, but more than 75% of deaths.

The primary causes of skin cancer can be attributed to the sun’s harmful UV radiation and the use of artificial tanning devices. Luckily, if a skin cancer is found early, it is highly treatable. If you keep up with your preventative skin screenings, your dermatology clinician may detect a lesion at a precancerous stage before it becomes an advanced skin cancer and invade the deeper layers of the skin.