3 Factors Leading Skin Cancer Risk

Posted by Cancer Care on Tuesday, December 7, 2010


Approximately 60,000 people contract skin cancer each year. It begins when your skin cells begin to grow so fast and so control. This then leads to a malignant (cancerous) forms on your skin. While sun exposure is the main risk factor for this type of cancer, there are others too. In this article I will discuss three main risk factors for skin cancer.

1) exposure to ultraviolet (UV): As I mentioned above is the major risk factor for this type of cancer. The reason is that UV rays damage DNA in your skin cells to increase the chances of cell division goes awry and cancer formation. Sunlight contains UV rays, thus prolonged exposure to sunlight through a lot of time outdoors can increase your risk. Sunbeds and tanning beds also emit high doses of UV rays and make you more prone to developing this condition.

2) clear skin: People with fair skin have a higher probability of skin cancer because their skin has less protection against UV rays. Those with very pale skin that turns red in the sun or freckles are most at risk, especially if they are heavily exposed to UV radiation soon. In contrast, dark-skinned people are much less likely to develop this condition because their skin pigment melanin, which provides protection against UV rays.

3) Genetic factors: There are several genetic factors that may increase the likelihood of developing this cancer. First of all, there are two or more relatives who developed skin cancer is believed to contribute to the risk. Secondly, with blond or red hair makes you more likely to develop this disease. Thirdly, people with blue eyes is believed to be at greater risk than other eye colors. In addition, people are a lot of freckles or moles on the skin is considered the best opportunity to develop this cancer.

Unlike other cancers, you have full control over most of the risk factors for skin cancer. Prolonged exposure to UV rays which makes you more prone to developing this condition, especially if you have fair skin, blond or red hair, blue eyes and lots of freckles and moles. Therefore, if you know you're in the sun for long periods to take precautions by covering the skin and wear sunscreen. If your genetic traits that make you an even higher risk for this cancer, so be sure to shelter regularly and avoid prolonged exposure to UV rays when you can. If you take these precautions, you should be able to reduce your skin cancer risk.Whilst all intentions are made to this article accurate and informative, it is designed for general information only. Skin cancer is very serious, potentially fatal and you should discuss problems, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.

Source by ezinearticles.com

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