Skin Cancer–Causes and Prevention

Over 1,000,000 skin cancer cases are diagnosed3] There are two types of Ultraviolet rays UVA
every year. Before I delve more into the topic, Iand UVB. Recent study shows that both can
would like to show you some figures (source:cause skin cancer. Hence, it is suggested to take
cdc.gov website):adequate protection to prevent both types of UV
1] 30,544 men and 23,248 women wererays.
diagnosed with melanoma in 2005 in the United4] UV ray is not the only cause of skin cancer.
StatesSome people may inherit the disease from their
2] In 2005, 5,283 men and 3,062 women died ofparents and ancestors. Such cancers take place
skin cancer in the United States alonewhen children inherit abnormal genes from parents
Figures are frightening, aren’t they? However,and as a result of which skin cells start growing
there is a word of relief too. Research hasabnormally – in a malignant order.
proved that people can avoid skin cancer by5] Three types of skin cancer are there: Basal Cell
taking adequate protection from UV ray.Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma and
Few facts about Skin Cancer:Melanoma. Skin cancer treatment depends on the
1] Symptoms of skin cancer may not be visibletype of cancer you are suffering from.
immediately after the victim gets exposed toHow to protect yourself from UV rays:
excessive sunlight and ultraviolet rays; it mayAvoid sunlight from 10 am through 4 pm as much
take years for the symptoms to becomeas possible – this is the time period when
prominent. Hence, even if there is no visible signsunlight remains strongest in summer. If you avoid
of skin cancer on your body, you may have beensunlight you are safe. Unfortunately, it is almost
victimised already. Take all the precautions;impossible to avoid UV 100%. You may need to
negligence can be detrimental to your health.go out in the sun in summer; in such cases, wear
2] Children are more vulnerable because they getsomething protective that helps you pass up UV
engaged in more outdoor activities than adults. Itrays.
has been reported that more than 50% of totalUse sunscreens to protect your skin from sun
sunlight exposure of an adult takes place inburn and blisters. UV rays not only cause cancer,
childhood. Hence, take due care of your children.but it may damage your skin irreversibly and can
Consult a dermatologist to know about skinmake your skin look older than your actual age.
cancer prevention; prevention is always betterSunscreens with UV protection can help you avoid
than cure.sunburn and skin cancer as well.
However, it does not mean that adults do notYou can also consult dermatologists to know how
need protection. All individuals must followto protect your family and yourself from skin
whatever is needed to protect themselves fromcancer; they may prescribe something suitable for
this deadly disease.the climate you live in.