Skin Cancer is the most common of all types of cancer. It is estimated that more than one million Americans will develop skin cancer every year.

1) Actinic Keratosis - Considered the earliest stage in the developement of skin cancer.

2) Basal Cell Carcinoma - Most common type of skin cancer and appears frequently on the head, neck, and hands as a small, fleshy bump, nodule, or red patch.

3) Squamous Cell Carcinoma - The second most common skin cancer; it is primarily found in fair-skinned people. Typically located on the rim of the ear, face, lips, and mouth, this cancer may appear as a bump, or as a red, scaly patch.

4) Malignant Melanoma - The most deadly of all skin cancers. An estimated 8000 Americans will die from melanoma. The cancer appears in mixed shades of tan, brown, and black; although it can be red or white.

ABCD's of Melanoma

A        Asymmetry - One half does not match the other half in size, shape, color, or thickness.

B        Border Irregularity - Edges are ragged, scalloped, or poorly defined.

C        Color - Pigmentation is not uniformed.

D        Diameter - While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed.

IF YOU NOTICE A MOLE DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS, OR WHICH CHANGES, ITCHES, OR BLEEDS YOU SHOULD SEE A DERMATOLOGIST.