The type of cancer is generally based on the part of your body and the type of cell where the cancer first developed. The most common places for cancer to develop are the skin, lungs, breasts, prostate, colon and rectum.There are three main types of cell where cancer develops: 1  Epithelial cells.2  Cancers that develop in this type of cell are called carcinomas. 3  About 80-90% of cancers are this type. 4  Cells of the blood and lymphatic system.he type of cancer is generally based on the part of your body and the type of cell where the cancer first developed. The most common places for cancer to develop are the skin, lungs, breasts, prostate, colon and rectum. There are three main types of cell where cancer develops: