Sun Exposure and Skin Cancer Causes

Skin cancer is another type of fastest growing type of cancer in the United States. Studies have found that one of three cancers is related to skin problems. Also that less than 10,000 people die from skin cancer in US each year. One of the main causes of skin cancer is excessive sun exposure which causes wrinkles and age spots on the face. Though skin damage is less apparent amongst young people however it shows up in the later half.

The symptoms of skin cancer may take several years to become prominent. The skin tumor usually develops in its epidermis form which is visible to the naked eye and can easily be diagnosed. An early detection of the disease can help in restricting the same. The curable percentage has reached 90% for patients reaching the past 5 years survival mark.

Melanoma is the form of skin cancer which has been steadily increasing over the last 20 years. The reason given by the dermatologists is related to an increase in the amount of sun exposure in younger years.

Skin colour obtained from being in the sun (suntan) usually accelerates the effects of aging thereby increasing the risk for skin cancer. However, sun exposure alone is responsible for most of the skin changes.

Elastine, the fibers in the skin are damaged by the ultraviolet rays of the sun. The skin begins to sag, stretch, and loses its ability to return into place after stretching once these fibers are damaged.
Ultraviolet is a part of the gamut of radiation emitted by the sun and is divided into different wavelengths which are known as UVA, UVB and UVC. Of which UVC is the shortest wavelength which is blocked by ozone and oxygen. No matter the size it most dangerous for the skin. Tanning beds are equally harmful as the ultraviolet rays from the sun, as they cause brown patches, broken blood vessels, premature wrinkles and a leathery looking skin.

Basal cell and squamous cell skin cancer types are caused due to cumulative sun exposure, whereas melanoma type of cancer is caused due to the episodes of severe sunburns, usually before 18 years. Repeated X-ray exposure and occupational exposure to certain chemicals are some less common causes of skin cancer.

Moreover, pale skin, numerous moles, smoking, a diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables, and frequent sunburns also act as strong predictors of later skin cancer as compared to UV exposure.

Copyright 2009