What is the most common type of skin cancer?

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for a significant majority of skin cancer cases. This type of cancer arises from the basal cells in the epidermis, which is the outer layer of the skin. Basal cell carcinoma typically develops in areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, head, and neck.

One of the reasons basal cell carcinoma is so prevalent is that it often results from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can lead to mutations in the DNA of skin cells. Although basal cell carcinoma can be locally aggressive, it rarely metastasizes to other parts of the body. This characteristic makes it somewhat less dangerous compared to other skin cancers, such as malignant melanoma, though early detection and treatment are still important for preventing complications.

In contrast, squamous cell carcinoma is also a common skin cancer but less common than basal cell carcinoma. Malignant melanoma, while more lethal and aggressive, is less common than both basal and squamous cell carcinomas. Keratosis, on the other hand, refers to thickened patches of skin that can indicate precancerous changes or benign conditions rather than being classified as a type of cancer. Understanding these distinctions helps to clarify why