What is the most common type of skin cancer?

Basal cell skin cancer is recognized as the most prevalent form of skin cancer, accounting for a significant majority of skin cancer cases. This type of cancer originates from the basal cells found in the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. Factors contributing to its high incidence include prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight, which leads to DNA damage in skin cells.

Basal cell carcinoma typically emerges as a pearly or waxy bump, frequently occurring on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, ears, and neck. While it is often characterized by a slow growth rate and rarely metastasizes, its prevalence makes it a critical concern in dermatological health.

In contrast, other types of skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, though serious, do not match the incidence rate of basal cell carcinoma. Actinic keratosis is actually a precancerous condition rather than a type of skin cancer, making it less relevant in the context of this question. Understanding the distinction between these conditions helps to clarify the significance of recognizing basal cell carcinoma as the most common type of skin cancer.