Rate of skin cancer cases in the U.S. in 2021, by race/ethnicity

As of 2021, non-Hispanic white people in the United States had the highest incidence rates of skin cancer among all races and ethnicities. Skin cancer is one of the most commonly occurring cancers in the world. Furthermore, the United States is among the countries with the highest rates of skin cancer worldwide. 

Skin cancer in the U.S.

There are a few different types of skin cancer and some are more deadly than others. Basal and squamous skin cancers are more common and less dangerous than melanomas. Among U.S. residents, skin cancer has been demonstrated to be more prevalent among men than women. Skin cancer is also more prevalent among older adults. With treatment and early detection, skin cancers have a high survival rate. Fortunately, in recent years the U.S. has seen a reduction in the rate of death from melanoma.

Skin cancer prevention

Avoiding and protecting exposed skin from the sun (and other sources of UV light) is the primary means of preventing skin cancer. However, a survey of U.S. adults from 2024 found that around a third never used sunscreen.