Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. Because most cases are preventable, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a call to action to prevent skin cancer. Annual costs for treating skin cancer have been estimated at $8.1 billion, with about $3.3 billion of skin cancer treatment costs attributable to melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. A recent study indicates that the number of skin cancer cases due to indoor tanning is higher than the number of lung cancer cases due to smoking.

More than 63,000 cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year. Early diagnosis and treatment can be vital in achieving the best possible outcomes, but as many as 9,000 deaths result from skin cancer annually.

Failure or delays in diagnosing skin cancer, along with mistakes in treating skin cancer, frequently lead to litigation. Lawsuits can result in high awards or settlements.

Attorneys, physicians, hospitals, insurers, employers, and other potential parties to the litigation should be aware of the types of lawsuits and other liability issues that arise in connection with the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.

Arbitration or mediation may be required by contract or statute, may be mandated by the court or, in some circumstances, may be the appropriate method for a negotiated resolution.

The following are reasons why the attorney, physician, insurer, or employer would want to reach settlement, and not take the action to trial.

The following are reasons why the attorney, physician, insurer, or employer would want to take the action to trial.

How much have juries awarded and what settlements have been reached recently in cases involving skin cancer? 

This section provides detailed medical information on skin, benign skin conditions, the types of skin cancer, and skin cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. It also discusses the patient’s prognosis.  

Provided is a listing of law and medical resources for further information on skin cancer.