Studies suggest that the life expectancy of men who choose watchful waiting is the same as that of men treated with surgery or radiation therapy. Their life expectancy also is the same as that of the general population. Other research studies on watchful waiting are underway. Your grandfather and other family members should discuss all treatment choices with the doctor before making a decision. Now that summer is here, I worry about skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States.
About 40 to 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have skin cancer at least once. Although anyone can get skin cancer, the risk is greatest for people who have fair skin that freckles easily, red or blonde hair, and blue or light-colored eyes. People who live in very sunny areas of the United States are more likely to get skin cancer. For example, the disease is more common in Florida than it is in Minnesota. Artificial sources of UV radiation, such as sunlamps and tanning booths, also can cause skin cancer.