Basal-cell carcinoma
Basal-cell cancer is a very common skin cancer. It is much more common in fair-skinned individuals with a family history of basal-cell cancer and increases in incidence closer to the equator or at higher altitude. There are approximately 800,000 new cases yearly in the United States alone. Up to 30% of Caucasians develop basal-cell carcinomas in their lifetime. In Canada, the most common skin cancer is basal-cell carcinoma (as much as one third of all cancer diagnoses), affecting 1 in 7 individuals over a lifetime.
Skin cancer in Australia
Melanoma, basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas are predominantly caused by exposure to ultra violet radiation (UVR), and both UVA and UVB radiation has internationally been categorised as carcinogenic. Artificial UVR primarily used in tanning salons and sunbeds, has generated concern among health officials and it was observed to considerably heighten the risk of developing cutaneous malignant melanoma. A study in 2010 found strong evidence supporting association between indoor tanning salon use and increased risk of developing melanoma. The study demonstrated strong correlations between increased risk of melanomas and carcinogenic ultraviolet radiation related outcomes. These increased risks were specifically associated with younger participants, with tanning and solarium use relatively popular among teens and young adults. An increase of 59% in risk of developing melanoma was associated with people who used sun beds before they were 35.