If you notice any new or unusual spots on your skin—or if existing spots begin to change, itch, or bleed—schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist. Find a Dermatologist near you
Cancer Prevention Program
Placer County’s Cancer Prevention Program aims to empower residents with the information and tools they need to make informed health choices through education, community engagement, and policy promotion.
While the program's primary goal is to protect the community from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) exposure and reduce the risk of skin cancer, the program also offers important information on other prevalent cancers in Placer County, including breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer.
Skin Cancer in Placer
Each year in the U.S., more people are diagnosed with skin cancer than all other cancers combined. In fact, Placer County is one of the leading counties in California with the highest rates of skin cancer.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they reach 70 years.
Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma | Squamous Cell Carcinoma | Melanoma
Prevention & Education
SunscreenAccording to IMPACT Melanoma, using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on a regular basis can reduce the risk of developing skin cancer by 50%. | Protective ClothingClothing is one of the best ways to block harmful UV rays, but not all clothing offers the same level of protection. |
Know the SignsSkin cancer affects all skin types and can occur anywhere on the body- even areas not exposed to the sun. | Risk FactorsSkin cancer risk increases as people get older because of the UV light they have been exposed to over time. Certain habits and personal traits can make the risk even higher. |
Did You Know?
- Outdoor workers face a 60% higher risk of developing skin cancer.
- Snow reflects up to 80% of UV light from the sun, doubling your exposure to the same sun rays. Keep your skin safe in the winter.
- One severe sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double the risk of developing melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer, later in life. Learn how to keep your baby safe.
Breast Cancer in Placer
Compared to other counties, Placer County experiences higher rates of breast cancer. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and, although the death rate has declined over the past decade, it remains to be the second-deadliest cancer in the Placer community.
Prevention and Screening
Screening is the best way to detect breast cancer. Contact your primary healthcare provider to learn more about screening services available to you.
- Know the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
- Breast Cancer Risk and Prevention
- American Cancer Society Screening Guidelines
Resources
- Every Woman Counts - This program provides free breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services for low-income.
- Medical Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program - This program helps eligible low-income California residents diagnosed with breast and/or cervical cancer by covering treatment costs.
Prostate Cancer in Placer
After skin, prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men. Since 2019, there has been an increase in deaths from prostate cancer in Placer County.
According to the American Urological Association, approximately 1 in 8 men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime. The odds are even higher for African American men (1 in 6) and those with a family history (1 in 5).
Prevention & Screening
Screening recommendations vary based on factors such as age, family history, race, and overall health; therefore, it’s important to consult with your primary healthcare provider to determine the best approach for you.
Support Resources
- DHCS Prostate Cancer Treatment Program - Provides prostate cancer treatment for men who have little or no health insurance.
- Support Groups
Lung Cancer in Placer
Both nationally and in Placer County, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among both men and women.
According to the CDC, cigarette smoking is responsible for approximately 80–90% of lung cancer deaths. In addition, adults who are exposed to secondhand smoke increase their risk of developing lung cancer by 20-30%.
- What Increases Your Risk?
- Lung Cancer Among People Who Never Smoked
- Symptoms of Lung Cancer
- Conozca Su Riesgo: cáncer de pulmón en las comunidades Hispanas/Latinas
Prevention & Screening
Visit Placer's Tobacco Control Program to learn more about ongoing efforts to decrease the prevalence of tobacco use.
Colon Cancer in Placer
In Placer, colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer (excluding skin cancer) in men and women. It is also the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
Prevention & Screening
The CDC recommends getting screened regularly starting at the age of 45. There are several screening tests that can be used to detect colon cancer. Consult with your doctor about what approach works best for you.
Additional Resources
SunWise Art Winners
Thank you to all the students who participated in Placer’s first SunWise Art Contest! K–6th graders were invited to highlight at least three sun safety practices, and we were so impressed by the creativity and effort shared.