Skin cancer affects one of the largest organs in the body. In this condition, abnormal skin cells multiply abruptly. Various risk factors can increase one’s chances of developing this cancer. Knowing them can help you prevent them from happening.
Skin cancer can happen to anyone. However, certain risk factors may accelerate the process. They are:
It is one of the most common risk factors for this cancer. Regardless of whether you experience long-term exposure or short-term intense exposure, protecting your skin is of utmost importance. The skin's DNA gets damaged when exposed to UV.
If you have a previous history of getting sunburned multiple times, your chances of getting skin cancer increase. Therefore, people working as farmers, gardeners, construction workers and other outdoor jobs have a significantly higher chance of developing non-melanoma skin cancer.
Skin colour plays a vital role in sun protection. People with dark-coloured skin have more melanin, protecting them from UV. However, white-skinned people do not contain enough melanin to protect them from skin cancer. Therefore, they can develop non-melanoma skin cancer.
However, it does not mean people with a darker complexion cannot develop this disease. They can get melanoma skin cancer, which affects the nail beds, palms and feet.
This condition affects your skin's melanin production capabilities. It is a genetic condition where the skin and hair become pale white and blonde, completely devoid of melanin. People afflicted with this are at a higher risk.
If any of your family members previously had squamous cell skin cancer (SCC), your chances also increase. Similarly, if a family member suffers from basal cell skin cancer (BCC), your risk increases as well.
One’s chances of developing this disease increase if they have had skin cancer before. Contrary to this, people who have never had this disease have a lower chance. Therefore, you should always cover yourself when stepping out in the sun.
People staying in elevated areas often face greater intensity of UV rays. This is because higher altitudes have a thinner atmosphere, which cannot filter the sun’s UV rays as effectively.
Apart from being the primary cause of lung cancer in the world, smoking can also result in skin cancer on the lips. If you are struggling with tobacco and smoking, you are not alone. Getting help can help you prevent further health complications.
Along with the above-mentioned risk factors, certain others also exist. They are not directly related to your skin, but they can increase your chances. They are as follows:
Knowing these risk factors helps you adopt appropriate measures to stop UV damage to your skin. Moreover, it can help you notice symptoms early and start treatment before it spreads.