Skin cancer cases continue to increase everywhere. Statistics from cancer.gov estimates that more than a million new cases but less than 1,000 deaths from skin (nonmelanoma) cancer will be reported in the United States in 2009:

These statistics don't mean much unless you are or know one of the million new cases or one of the thousand deaths from skin cancer.

There aren't many types of skin cancer and some are not as bad as others. Most of the non-lethal types are slow growing cancers and cosmetics or how the skin looks is usually the first concern. We're all interested in how we look, (even us old guys). Some topical treatments (ointments) such as effudex and fluoroplex are useful in removing skin cells that may become cancerous.

The first and most common type of cancer is known as basal cell carcinoma. The typical signs of basal skin cancer are waxy or pearly looking bumps that can occur anywhere on the body. Basil cells are more common on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, like the face, arms and legs. It might also show up on your back or chest as a scar-like spot that can be flesh-colored or brown and can look like liver spots. It doesn't usually spread very fast and is usually easy to treat.

The second type of cancer is known as squamous cell carcinoma. It is more dangerous than a basil cell and is characterized by symptoms like red nodules or a scaly lesion or sore that won't heal.

This type of skin cancer can show up on anywhere on the body but usually occurs on the face, arms and legs. This type of cancer does not spread very fast, but the frequency of spreading is higher than that of basal cell carcinoma.

It is also a cancer that is easily treated effectively if it is detected early. Left untreated though, this type of skin cancer can go to other parts of the body, making treatments much more difficult.

The third type of skin cancer is known as a melanoma. Melonomas are considered to be the rarest and most serious type of skin cancer. Melanomas cause the majority of skin cancer related deaths.

The most effective treatment for a melanoma is surgical removal. A melanoma can look like an asymmetrical skin lesion and can have an irregular border. Sometimes the lesion will have multiple colors and can be raised above the skin like a mole.

Symptoms of a melanoma can include a mole located anywhere on your body. It is important to check your skin for new moles and watch existing moles for changes like an increase in size or a change in color. For instance, a melanoma can look like a large brown spot with darker speckles inside it. Lesions with irregular borders or more than one color may also be signs of a melanoma.

If you notice any unusual spots or moles anywhere on your body, or if a mole changes at all, it is important to see your doctor for a professional examination.

Melanoma can be serious, but it is still 99% treatable when caught in the early stages. Melanoma is more dangerous but less common. If untreated it can spread to other tissues and organs.

There are many treatment options available for the different types of skin cancer. Surgery is the most common. If surgery doesn't work or is not an option, radiation and chemotherapy may work on some cancers.

There may even be some alternative skin cancer treatments available. Everyone who has had skin cancer would like to find ways to prevent the disease.

The important thing is to see a doctor if you have any changes in your skin that cause concern. Changes in the skin have to be evaluated to determine if cancer is present and what treatment is necessary and appropriate. There are advantages and disadvantages to every treatment. It's up to you and your doctor to determine which one is best.