There's no such thing as a healthy tan. Nearly 95 percent of all skin cancers in the United States are caused by exposure to UV radiation. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 47,700 new cases of melanomas will be diagnosed during the year 2000. Also about 1.3 million cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year. It looks like a clear spot or small bump that usually forms on the head, neck or hand.
Size can vary.
Basal cell carcinoma. This often develops on the lips, face or tops of the ears. Squamous cell carcinoma. Two common forms of malignant melanoma. One-half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.