Final answer:
Over one million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year globally, making it the most common cancer. Basal cell carcinoma accounts for a significant portion of these diagnoses in the United States. Early diagnosis and preventive measures are crucial for successful treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Every year, there are over one million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed worldwide. This makes skin cancer the most common form of human cancer. Due to prolonged and excessive exposure to UV radiation, which leads to DNA damage in skin cells, skin cancer can form, sometimes presenting as tumors that can be quite challenging to cure. The number of cases underscores the importance of preventative measures, such as wearing sunscreen with high SPF, hats, and protective clothing when exposed to the sun. In the United States, basal cell carcinoma is the most frequent cancer diagnosed, constituting 40 percent of all new cancer cases each year. Skin cancer, if diagnosed early, often has a successful treatment outcome, thus emphasizing the need for regular skin checks and monitoring for abnormal growths on the skin.