Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. The two most common types are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer. They usually form on the head, face, neck, hands and arms. Another type of skin cancer, melanoma, is more dangerous but less common.

Anyone can get skin cancer, but it is more common in people who: 1) Spend a lot of time in the sun or have been sunburned, 2) Have light-colored skin, hair and eyes, 3)Have a family member with skin cancer, and 4) Are over age 50

You should have your doctor check any suspicious skin markings and any changes in the way your skin looks. Treatment is more likely to work well when cancer is found early. If not treated, some types of skin cancer cells can spread to other tissues and organs.

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Want to help? Join the Party in Pink 5k run/walk on Friday, June 28th (6pm) with proceeds benefiting Gifts of Hope (mammograms for women who cannot afford them).

Source: National Cancer Institute

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JE June 5, 2013, 12:26 am I\'ve had one squamous surgically removed from my left arm, several small spots frozen w/ liquid nitrogen, one removed from the bridge of my nose and one on top of my head with radiation. And they tell me it\'s mostly the result of having been a lifeguard in the 1950s at Vinton\'s two original swimming pools. I still think that\'s a bit of a stretch, but I\'m no expert in the matter. Just keep an eye out for any skin abnormalities. You may need some help with the top of your head, though....