Cancer is a disease that has been reported to cause millions of deaths worldwide and has many different forms. Cancer is defined as “a malignant form of tumors, which are masses of tissue that arise through mutations in genes that govern cell growth and division” (Starr, 1999, p. 213). Skin cancer is just one of many types of cancer that affects people and most commonly in the United States. It is a disease in which cancerous cells are found on the epidermis which is the outer layer of the skin or an uncontrolled growth of skin cells. This cancer affects the skin tissues and is the most invasive of all tumors and is increasingly on the rise. It is a disease that can affect anyone living under the sun. It includes many types classified as superficial or severe. Skin cancer is classified based on the layer in which it develops. Skin cancer occurs twice as often in men than in women. The highest cases of skin cancer have been reported in Australia and South Africa. This type of disease is common among white-skinned people and is rarely reported in dark-skinned people. According to cancer statistics, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting millions of people around the world. It has been estimated that 40-5% of people over the age of 65 have or have had skin cancer. Skin cancer is of three types: basal cell cancer (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. For starters, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common of all cancers. It develops in the lower layer of the epidermis. It is caused by the patched gene (PTC) that helps control the growth and development of cells. It rarely occurs in African Americans, but is mostly found in light skin... middle of paper... prevented if detected at an early stage. In order to prevent any type of skin cancer, people are recommended to avoid the sun at its peak hours and use sunscreen regularly. Any skin abnormalities should be reported to a local doctor for early treatment and prevention. People should take care of their skin by taking precautions when outdoors and wearing clothing such as hats and sunglasses to reduce their chances of developing skin cancer. Works CitedArndt, KA (2010).Skin Care and Repair.Chestnut Hill, MA: Harvard Health Publications.MacFarlane, DF (2009). Skin cancer management: a practical approach. New York, NY: Springer Publishers. Eggert, S., Rosen, T. & Schumack, S. (2009). Skin cancer management. New York, NY: Springer Schwartz, R. A. (2008). Skin cancer: recognition and management. Massachusetts, MA: Blackwell Publishing, Inc.