The aim of this two-part article is to highlight an area of cancer which holds promise in the form of overall reduction in incidence and mortality rates dependent on a few factors. These factors include education of the general public about the causes of skin cancer and preventative measures to reduce skin cancer, identification of high risk groups, and finally how to respond appropriately to the first signs of skin cancer. This first part identifies known causes and highlights signs and symptoms of skin cancer and why early detection and treatment is essential for improving overall survival outcomes. The second part in the series will focus on individuals within the population who are at higher risk of developing skin cancer and look at how education can enable people to make informed choices about their exposure
to ultraviolet (UV) radiation to reduce their chances of developing skin cancer.