How is Skin Cancer Caused?
October 28, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Skin cancer is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds. The interaction of UV radiation with skin cells can lead to DNA damage and mutations that, over time, can result in the development of skin cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer, each with its own risk factors:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
- BCC is the most common form of skin cancer.
- It is typically associated with long-term sun exposure and frequent sunburns.
- It often appears on areas of the skin that receive the most sun exposure, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, and shoulders.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
- SCC is the second most common form of skin cancer.
- Like BCC, SCC is often linked to long-term sun exposure, especially in individuals with fair skin.
- It can appear on sun-exposed areas, including the face, ears, lips, and the back of the hands.
- Melanoma:
- Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, as it can metastasize to other parts of the body.
- Intense, intermittent exposure to UV radiation, particularly sunburns in childhood and adolescence, is a significant risk factor for melanoma.
- It can develop on any part of the skin, including areas not heavily exposed to the sun.
Additional risk factors and considerations for skin cancer development include:
- Fair Skin: People with fair skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes are at a higher risk because they have less natural protection from UV radiation.
- Family History: A family history of skin cancer may increase an individual’s risk.
- Presence of Moles: Having numerous moles or atypical moles (dysplastic nevi) can increase the risk of melanoma.
- Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, or certain medications may be more susceptible to skin cancer.
- Exposure to UV Radiation from Tanning Beds: Using tanning beds or sunlamps significantly increases the risk of skin cancer.
Preventing skin cancer includes adopting the following protective measures:
- Sun Protection: Using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing (e.g., wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts), and seeking shade when the sun is strongest (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Avoiding Tanning Beds: Refraining from using tanning beds or sunlamps.
- Regular Skin Checks: Performing regular self-examinations of the skin and seeking professional skin cancer screenings, especially if there are risk factors.
- Early Detection: Detecting skin changes, such as new moles, changes in the appearance of existing moles, or unusual skin growths, and seeking medical attention promptly.
Treatment for skin cancer may involve surgical removal of the cancerous tissue, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Early detection and treatment can lead to a good prognosis in many cases.