Skin Cancer
How to prevent skin cancer
The most widespread form of cancer is skin cancer and almost 50% of the reported cases of cancer fall in this category. Skin cancer is characterized by the growth of malignant growth in the skin. Recent statistics indicate that in the United States a large number of people have been diagnosed with melanoma and non melanoma cancer. Skin cancer is mainly caused due to excessive exposure to the harmful ultraviolet or UV rays of the sun. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to guard your sensitive skin and thereby protecting it from the sun. Though most of the cases of skin cancer are reported after a certain age but the damaging effect on the skin begins quite early in life.
The UV radiation is the chief cause behind skin cancer. There are three different kinds of ultraviolet radiation and these include UVA, UVB and UVC. Of these the UVC are absorbed by the atmosphere of the Earth and thus does not reach us. UVA and UVB have wavelengths of 320 to 400 nm and 280 to 320 nm respectively and when they come into contact with our skin, they react with a substance called melanin that is present in human skin. While UVA rays are responsible for premature ageing, appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, UVB exposes us to the graver danger of skin cancer. UVA further aggravates the effects of UVB.
Prolonged exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays can lead to skin cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer and these include basal cell skin cancer, squamous cell skin cancer and malignant melanoma. These are named after the skin cells which they affect.
Basal cell cancer is also known as non-melanoma skin cancer. It can be identified by the appearance of a small growth of flesh on the hands, head or neck area. This form of cancer can be identified easily and therefore the chances of a complete cure are high. People who have a lighter complexion are more prone to acquire this form of cancer.
Squamous cell cancer is also a non melanoma cancer and is characterized by the appearance of red patches on skin or in the form of small nodules.
Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It is alternatively known as cutaneous melanoma. It is rarely found in children. In melanoma, the cancer cells affect the skin pigment called melanin, one that is responsible for the color of our skins. Melanoma can appear in the form of a mole that changes in its size and color and at times you can find it bleeding or itching.
Following a few small steps on a regular basis can minimize the threat of skin cancer. Your first priority should be to avoid exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun as much as possible. For that you need to wear protective clothing and even a hat that would guard your eyes and head against the rays. You should apply sunscreen to those areas of the body which remained uncovered, like your hands and feet. Choose a sunscreen that has a SPF count of more than 15 and it should be applied regularly, even on a cloudy day. If possible, do not venture out during the midday, in the hours between 10 am to 3 pm.
You should also try and avoid the radiation from the tanning parlors or sunlamps. These not only harm your skin but also increase the chances of cancer. You need to take special care of your kids as well and do not allow them to play outside in the sun during the noon and afternoon. Just follow these few points and you can save yourself and your family from skin cancer.
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