It untreated, it can spread throughout the entire body. It's estimated that in 1998, malignant melanoma will affect at least 41,600 people, causing 7,300 deaths. Malignant melanoma is responsible for 70 percent of all skin cancer deaths. Another 1,900 deaths will be caused by non-melanoma skin cancers. Over 1 million Americans get skin cancer each year, making it the most common form of cancer in the United States.
Skin cancer can affect anyone, but some people are at greater risk than others.
Experts believe that approximately eighty percent of all skin cancers can be prevented if simple precautions against the sun's ultraviolet radiation are taken. Yes, when detected and treated early, most skin cancers can be successfully treated and often cured. The cancerous tissue is vaporized by a laser beam. Cancerous tissue is destroyed by the applications of intensely cold liquid nitrogen. This therapy is useful in treating pre-cancerous lesions.