The most common cancer in the United States is more widespread than previously reported, according to a new analysis by SkinCure Oncology. The company estimates that approximately 4.7 million Americans are diagnosed with nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) each year, a 42 percent increase over the long-cited figure of 3.3 million. That translates to nearly 13,000 new diagnoses every day.
The previous estimate, which has been used by healthcare organizations for more than a decade, stemmed from research published in 2015 using data collected in 2012. The updated analysis accounts for historical growth in diagnoses, independent federal healthcare survey data, and a significant demographic shift: since 2012, the U.S. population aged 65 and older has grown nearly 50 percent, reaching roughly 64 million in 2026. Because NMSC disproportionately affects older Americans, this aging trend has likely driven a substantial rise in cases.
Despite being the most common cancer, NMSC lacks a comprehensive national tracking system for its two main forms, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. This gap means official statistics have not kept pace with reality. Kerwin Brandt, CEO of SkinCure Oncology, said, "Skin cancer deserves far more attention than it receives. Accurate information about the millions of Americans affected each year is essential to improving prevention, early detection, access to treatment and patient outcomes." The company is calling for the establishment of a national database to track the disease, which could lead to better resource allocation and public health strategies.
While NMSC is highly treatable when detected early, it can cause significant tissue damage, disfigurement, and, in some cases, life-threatening complications if left unchecked. The rising number of cases underscores the importance of early detection and effective treatment. Surgery, including Mohs micrographic surgery, remains a standard approach, but nonsurgical alternatives are offering patients new options. One established approach is Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IGSRT), which combines low-energy X-rays with high-resolution ultrasound imaging to treat skin cancer without surgery. Published clinical studies involving thousands of early-stage lesions have reported local control rates exceeding 99 percent.
GentleCure®, offered through participating dermatology practices by SkinCure Oncology, incorporates IGSRT into a comprehensive, cancer center-level model of care delivered in the dermatologist's office. Despite such advances, many patients remain unaware of nonsurgical alternatives unless they ask. "Patients deserve to know all their treatment options," Brandt said. "Our goal is to ensure patients fully understand their options, and encourage them to work with their physicians to select the optimum approach." For more information about nonsurgical skin cancer treatment options and to find the nearest provider of the GentleCure Experience℠, visit GentleCure.com.
