Squamous cell and basal cell skin carcinoma and rarer histologic types of skin cancer

Nonmelanoma skin cancer has attracted little research interest compared with melanoma, although the former has a 10-fold greater incidence. The aggressiveness of melanoma has diverted attention from other forms of skin cancer for which reliable information is lacking. Until the size of the problem and the need for resources are determined, research will not be forthcoming or justified. Nonmelanoma skin cancer is arguably one of the most common cancers in humans today and its incidence is increasing rapidly. Its low mortality rate detracts attention from the high morbidity, both psychologic and physical, with which it is associated and from the drain on health resources that it generates.