Skin cancer

There are several different types of cancer referred to under the general label of skin cancer. The most dangerous is the melanoma; the most common type is squamous cell carcinoma.

Skin cancer is an increasingly common condition possibly due in part to the degradation of the ozone layer and the consequent increased levels of ultraviolet radiation, and also due to the recent popularity of tanning (sun bathing).

Minor surface skin cancers are readily treatable by simple surgery, but if the cancer is allowed to grow then it will penetrate through the layers of skin and affect the lymphatic system. It may also metastasize and spread to other parts of the body.