Final answer:
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, commonly occurring in the epidermis' basal cells and characterized by its low chances of metastasis. It accounts for the largest number of skin cancer cases and is most successfully treated when caught early.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma.
Basal cell carcinoma starts in the basal cells within the epidermis, which are stem cells responsible for producing new skin cells. It constitutes the highest percentage of skin cancer cases, significantly more than squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, actinic keratosis, or Kaposi sarcoma. Representing about 40 percent of all new cancers annually in the United States, it is predominantly found in areas most exposed to sunlight, such as the head, neck, arms, and back. While basal cell carcinoma rarely metastasizes, its treatment is most successful when detected early.
Typical treatment options include surgical excision, cryosurgery, and topical medications. It is noteworthy that, although melanoma is the rarest form of skin cancer, it is the most deadly due to its high likelihood of metastasis if left untreated.