The rationale for skin cancer screening and prevention.

Skin cancer, the most common malignancy in the United States, accounts for considerable morbidity and mortality. Efforts at lessening the burden of this disease are possible through both primary and secondary prevention, although some barriers may detract from the ability of primary care physicians to perform skin cancer screening. Public education combined with increased vigilance by physicians and other health professionals may significantly alter the morbidity and mortality associated with this disease entity.