Skin cancer occurs due to the unusual growth of abnormal skin cells in the epidermis. You may have the condition if you have scaly patches, vision problems, itchiness, or a spot that will not disappear. In case you notice these symptoms, you can start by reaching out to a Mohs skin cancer surgeon Stockton. Remember, it is treatable as long as you do not wait for it to worsen.
You are probably wondering how people get this kind of cancer. In this article, you will discover that lifestyle and how you were born can make you get it below.
People With Fair Skin
One thing to remember is that you can get skin cancer regardless of your skin tone. However, people with white skin and albinism are more likely to get the disease because they have less melanin, a protective element. Its role is to absorb harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, which then protects the cells from damage.
To reduce the risk of getting the disease from sun exposure, they should wear sunscreen. Also, they can shield themselves with umbrellas.
People Who Frequently Use Tanning Beds
Like the sun, they emit UV rays. They damage the DNA in skin cells. If they cause significant damage, they can trigger cancer cells to grow uncontrollably.
As effective as they are, it would be best to consider other tanning alternatives. Some safe methods to consider include tanning towels and airbrush makeup.
People Who Have Moles
Moles are neither dangerous nor cancerous. They help in transferring melanin to neighboring cells. They only become problematic when UV rays damage their DNA. When that happens, they trigger the cancerous growth of melanocytes which cause skin cancer.
The more moles you have on your body, the greater your risk of skin cancer. According to Mayo Clinic, that is likely to happen if you have at least 50 of them.
People Born to Families With the History of the Disease
A common skin cancer disease that is inherited is melanoma. It is very lethal since it develops in the cells that produce melanin and appears in the eyes, throat, or nose.
People with melanoma usually have moles called dysplastic nevi. As a result, they will pass them on to their offspring. Compared to other moles, these are easily affected by UV radiation. They are easily distinguishable because they are flat, large, and asymmetric. People with such moles should observe their shape. In case of any change, they should see a doctor immediately.
People Who Are Always Exposed to Radiation
Certain careers force people to interact with radioactive elements like arsenic, such as in construction, nuclear power, and medical sectors. Prolonged exposure to it triggers skin lesions and pigmentation changes which can lead to skin cancer.
Such workers need to reduce the risk of exposure by wearing protective equipment such as respirators, helmets, and gloves.
Conclusion
If possible, you should take steps to avoid skin cancer, including those predisposed to getting it. Prevention is, after all, better than cure. If you suspect you have it, you can get rid of it by visiting a doctor.
They will perform several tests to assess the seriousness of your condition. If they want to check for it on the skin, they will consider a sentinel lymph node biopsy. As for the internal organs, a computed tomography (CT) scan will be more apt.