Where Do Skin Cancers Occur?
Both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers can occur anywhere on the body. But basal and squamous cell cancers more often appear in areas that are exposed to the sun often over many years. These include the face, head, neck, arms, and back of hands of people who spend much time outside. (Some examples are farmers, sailors, and outdoor laborers.) In contrast, melanomas are more likely to occur on areas of the body that are exposed to sun intensely on and off. These include the back and chest in men, and the backs of lower legs in women. These are especially common sites of melanoma in people who sunbathe or vacation in sunny places.
