Which type of skin cancer is most common due to overexposure to the sun?

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most prevalent form of skin cancer linked to excessive sun exposure. This type of cancer originates in the basal cells, which are located in the lower part of the epidermis, and usually develops on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, ears, neck, and shoulders. The primary risk factor for developing basal cell carcinoma is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight, which causes cumulative damage to the DNA in skin cells.

While other types of skin cancer may also be associated with sun exposure, basal cell carcinoma is the most common, representing about 80% of all non-melanoma skin cancers. It tends to grow slowly and is less likely to metastasize compared to other skin cancers, making early detection and treatment critical. Understanding the relationship between UV exposure and skin cancer highlights the importance of sun protection and regular skin examinations for early detection.