Skin cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in the United States.
About one million new cases will be diagnosed in the United States this year. History - Persons with certain types of moles or those with a family history of dysplastic nevus syndrome are at a higher risk for developing melanoma. Patients who have had melanoma are at a greater risk for developing this disease again. Individuals who are exposed to the sun, X-rays or ultraviolet light for long periods of time have a greater risk. Studies suggest that avoiding sunburns, especially in childhood and adolescence, may reduce the incidence of melanoma.