5.4 Million Cases a Year: The Skin Cancer Number No One Talks About
Nonmelanoma skin cancers dwarf melanoma in sheer numbers and are almost entirely caused by UV, so daily protection lowers your odds across the board.
In its early-2025 statistics update, the Skin Cancer Foundation reported that about 5.4 million nonmelanoma skin cancers are diagnosed annually in the US and that new invasive melanoma cases rose 42% from 2015 to 2025.
The Skin Cancer Foundation emphasizes that the overwhelming share of skin cancers is tied to UV exposure, which makes daily, consistent sun protection one of the most effective preventive measures available.
Questions we get a lot
How many nonmelanoma skin cancers are diagnosed each year?
The Skin Cancer Foundation's early-2025 update reports that about 5.4 million nonmelanoma skin cancers are diagnosed annually in the US. These cancers, mainly basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, far outnumber melanoma cases. The vast majority are linked to cumulative UV exposure.
How much has invasive melanoma increased recently?
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation's 2025 update, new invasive melanoma cases rose 42% from 2015 to 2025. This continues a long-term upward trend in melanoma diagnoses. Early detection and daily sun protection remain the key tools for reducing risk and improving outcomes.
Can daily sunscreen really reduce skin cancer risk?
Yes. Because the overwhelming majority of skin cancers are linked to UV exposure, the Skin Cancer Foundation stresses that consistent sun protection is one of the most effective preventive steps. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, along with shade and protective clothing, lowers risk across both nonmelanoma and melanoma types. The 5.4 million annual nonmelanoma cases underline how preventable much of this burden is.
r/SkincareAddiction: 'Everyone talks about melanoma, but I just heard there are millions of other skin cancer cases a year. Is that real?'