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Skin Cancer
What is Skin Cancer?
With every 1 in 5 Americans developing skin cancer by age 70, skin cancer is a prevalent concern. Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to rapidly grow within the epidermis, or the outer layer of the skin.
The rapid cell growth can create malignant tumors and lead to the main types of skin cancer: squamous cell carcinoma (SCG), basal cell carcinoma (BCG), and melanoma.
Without attention and subsequent treatment, skin cancer can reoccur or even cause death.
Depending on the type of skin cancer, there can be various warning signs. It is best to frequently check for, as well as monitor, new or developing spots on the body.
What Causes Skin Cancer?
The two most common causes of skin cancer are UV tanning beds and, of course, ultraviolet (UV) rays that come from the sun.
Skin cancers such as squamous cell and basal cell skin cancers are usually attributed to ultraviolet ray exposure from the sun while the skin is unprotected. Additionally, you can obtain these skin cancers with frequent exposure to tanning beds, as harmful UV rays can damage the skin cells’ DNA.
Those who have fair skin are more at risk for getting skin cancer, especially those who have freckles or sunburn quickly. Light hair, as well as blue and green eyes, also are genetic attributes that can create cause for concern.