The sun causes most of the skin changes that we usually associate with aging. Over time, the sun’s ultraviolet light damages the fibres in the skin called elastin. Elastin is an important element in the skin’s connective tissue, keeping it tight. When these fibres break down, the skin starts to sag and it loses its ability to go back into place after stretching. The skin also bruises more easily. Even though the sun damage might not be visible while you are young, it will definitely become visible later in life.
Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer, and the number of people who develop skin cancer continues to rise. Skin cancer is characterised by uncontrollable growth of skin cells, resulting in a tumour, which can be either malign or benign. Only the malign tumours are referred to as cancerous tumours. There are three types of skin cancer: Basal and squamous cell skin cancer and melanoma. Around 95 % of all cases are due to basal or squamous cell skin cancer, and the last 5 % are due to melanoma. The two former types of skin cancer are considered easier to cure than melanoma if they are diagnosed in time. Melanoma is a very serious type of cancer, as it can easily be spread to other parts of the body via blood or lymph vessels thus forming metastasis. Melanomas cause 75 % of all skin cancer related deaths.
What causes skin cancer?
Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer, but ultraviolet light from tanning beds is just as harmful. Exposure to sunlight during the winter months puts you at the same risk as exposure during the summertime, as UVA rays are present in daylight all year round. Cumulative sun exposure mainly causes basal and squamous cell skin cancer, whereas episodes of severe sunburns, usually before the age of 18, can increase the risk of developing melanoma. Other less common causes include repeated X-ray exposure and exposure to certain strong chemicals.
Even though anyone can develop skin cancer, the risk is greatest for people with fair or freckled skin that burns easily, light eyes and blond or red hair. People with a darker skin tone are also susceptible to all types of skin cancer, although their risk is significantly lower. In addition, the risk of developing skin cancer is increased if you have a family history or personal history of skin cancer, if you have an outdoor job or if you live in a sunny climate.
What are the symptoms?
As skin cancer is definitely not something to ignore, it is important to know the symptoms and characteristics for the various types:
- Basal cell carcinomas often look like small, red and flaky bumps. This type of cancer often occurs in the skin of the neck, face, ears or chest or the trunk of the body. Basal cell carcinomas are often confused with eczema or psoriasis as they may appear as red or brown spots on the skin. This type of cancer rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
- Squamous cell carcinomas can appear as firm, red or white bumps or as scaly red lesions that may crust or bleed. Both basal and squamous cell carcinomas often occur in areas frequently exposed to the sun, but they may appear all over the body.
- Melanomas usually appear as pigmented spots or bumps, but they may also be white or red. A melanoma sometimes looks like a regular mole, but usually with a more irregular shape. Here, it is important to know the 5 signs of melanoma, or the ABDCE: Asymmetry, Border, Colour, Diameter and Evolving.
What can I do to avoid skin cancer?
Even though the skin is capable of repairing itself to a certain degree, it is unfortunately impossible to reverse the damage already inflicted by the sun. However, it is never too late to start using lotions containing sun protection and thus reduce further damage. As you get older, your skin ages as well – as an example, you sweat less and it takes longer for the skin to heal, but you can delay these changes by keeping out of the sun.
To avoid skin cancer, it is recommended that you apply SPF 30 sunscreen or more (to protect against UV-B rays) and zinc oxide (to protect against UV-A). You should apply the sunscreens around 20 minutes before going out into the sun, and again every two hours. You should, however, reapply more often if you sweat or swim. In addition, it is recommended to wear clothes, cosmetics and contact lenses that offer UV protection. It is also always a good idea to wear UV-blocking sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck. It is recommended to stay in the shade in the hours between 12 noon and 3 pm. It is also important to frequently examine your skin carefully for any changes in the appearance of old and new moles.
Source:
http://www.webmd.com/beauty/sun/sun-exposure-skin-cancer?page=4
