What Causes Skin Cancer ?
What Causes Skin Cancer ?
Skin Cancer is seems small, but it is the most common form of human cancer, which can prove fatal if not detected on time. It usually develops in the outermost layer of the skin, called the Epidermis. The cancer develops when DNA is damaged beyond repair and then the dameged cells , grow and divide at a very fast rate and spread the cancer to other skin surfaces. These damaged cells then multiply at a very fast rate, which results in a Tumor. This skin cancer tumor is generally very visible, thus making it easier to detect it in the early stages. Thus the most common symptoms are : change in the appearance of skin, a new growth , or a sore wound which does not heal.
There are 3 types of skin cancer which starts in 3 different skin cells:
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma : This is the most common form of skin cancer, and almost 80% of skin cancer patients suffer from this type. This develops in the basal cells, which are present in the lowest layer of the epidermis. This appears mostly on the maximum sun-exposed areas like: face, nose, head, ears, chest and neck. This cancer doesnt spread to other body parts, but can damage the surrounding tissues. People who have fair skin and are older have higher rates of basal cell carcinoma. It looks like a pink, shiny or translucent bump.
Factors which causes this skin cancer are:
- SUN-EXPOSURE: Exposure to Sun and UV rays, especially on holidays and vaccations in early age, or living in areas which receive high levels of UV radiation or in tanning booths, promotes this cancer.
- AGE: Most of the patients develope Basal Skin Cancer after 50yrs, though the damage starts in early age.
- THERAPEUTIC RADIATION: exposure to radiations given in various treatments can also be a cause.
To prevent it, you should restrict exposure to sun, specially during peak hours, wear caps and cotton clothes and regularly use waterproof sunscreen with 30+ SPF and by regular check-ups.
2. SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA: This cancer occurs in the squamous cells, which are present in the upper layer of the epidermis. People with fair skin and middle or older age are more likely to develope it. This cancer can spread, so it should be diagnosed in early stage. It looks like red, scaly and inflamed bump or a tumor, which doesnt heal.
Factors:
- SUN-EXPOSURE: Sun damaged parts like: forehead, cheeks and back of hands, can develope it.
- OTHERS: Exposure to arsenic, heat or X-rays.
3. MELANOMA: This is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and it begins in melanocytos cells, which are present in the skin ang are responsible for giving the skin its colour. It rapidly spreads to the internal organs and is fatal. But if caught on time there are 95% chances of it being cured. Its hard to detect as its appearance is that of a new mole.
