Which type of cancer has the highest incidence in the population?

Basal cell carcinoma has the highest incidence among the various types of cancer. This is primarily due to the fact that it is the most common form of skin cancer, often resulting from long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Unlike other cancers, basal cell carcinoma is less likely to spread to other parts of the body, but it can grow and invade nearby tissues if left untreated.

The high incidence is reflected in the fact that millions of cases are diagnosed each year, often becoming a significant public health issue. While melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma are also forms of skin cancer, they occur with lower frequency compared to basal cell carcinoma. Breast cancer, though it has a high incidence particularly among women, does not surpass the overall frequency of basal cell carcinoma in the general population. Thus, the designation of basal cell carcinoma as having the highest incidence is well-supported by epidemiological data.