Skin cancer detection and prevention: a community program promoting sun safe behaviors.

New cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed over one million times in the United States in 1999. Basal and squamous cell types can cause significant cosmetic morbidity. Malignant melanoma can cause serious morbidity and mortality. Thus, early detection and prevention efforts are crucial for all skin cancers. Studies have identified genetic, hereditary, and environmental factors associated with increased risk of developing skin cancer. In this article, the incidence and risk factors are reviewed. The Howard County Skin Cancer Awareness Project, established in 1996, is presented as a community based program that aims to increase public awareness about the prevention and early detection of skin cancer. Future directions are also addressed.