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When we think of skin cancer, the only thing that comes to mind is – excessive exposure to the sun – that could have been the reason for the same. Of course, the damage done to the skin by UV rays is irreversible and one of the main causes of skin cancer, however, there are other factors that can make a subject predisposed to this type of Cancer. While we think that it is a rare form of cancer, globally, 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year.
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Of the three, melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer. People with a dark complexion are most likely to suffer from melanoma and this usually occurs in areas that are not exposed to the sun.
In men, melanoma affects the regions of the head and neck. , under the arms, under the breasts, under the toe and nails.
Here are some causes of melanoma you should know:
Exposure to UV rays: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, usually from the sun, is at risk of developing skin cancer. However, some professions that expose to tanning lamps, which also emit UV rays, are the same type of threat. In addition, severe sunburns before the age of 18 can cause melanoma in the later stages of life. People with fair skin that are sensitive to the sun and easily develop pigmentation and freckles are also at risk.
Smokers: It's not just the sun that makes you skin cancer smoking is one of them. Smoking affects your skin adversely; it causes loss of elasticity to your skin and leads to pigmentation. All of this plays a role in the predisposition to skin cancer.
Pigmentation: Even if you are not a smoker and you see some kinds of pigments forming on your skin, on your face or body, a red flag. People with blond, red or light brown hair; Even blue, gray or green eyes are more likely to suffer from melanoma, although there is no data exploring the connection between the two.
Family history: This cancer is rampant in the family. Cancers can be caused by changes in the DNA that activate oncogenes or deactivate tumor suppressor genes. In people with a family history of melanoma, changes in DNA occur quickly when they are exposed to one of the risk factors – excessive exposure to sunlight, smoking, and so on.
Moles: the body does not ignore it, they are one of the first signs of developing skin cancer. It is, in fact, an abnormal growth of skin cells that should make you vigilant.
Weak Immune System: People on immunosuppressive drugs who have had organ transplants or who have been exposed to ionizing radiation or pesticides also fall into the high risk category.
Tips for preventing skin cancer
- Avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 4 pm
- Always wear sunscreen with UVB and UVA protective chemicals and with SPF 30 or more, even in cloudy weather.
- Wear treated sunglasses to absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation, use a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15 and wear tight clothing with long sleeves and a check your body yourself all months for unusual growth and moles.
- Perform a routine skin examination of the entire body at least once a year by a health professional.
Source: Shutterstock
(Contributions of Dr. Vikas Goswami, Senior Consultant in Oncology CTC, Fortis Hospital)
Published: 31 July 2018 2:25 pm
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