Three Potential Triggers For Skin Cancer To Be Mindful Of
Posted on: 14 August 2017
Skin cancer is something to watch for. While many minor instances of skin cancer can be handled at the doctors office, and are often benign, there are serious variations such as melanoma that can lead to severe problems. These cancers can spread, which is the huge issue. When a skin cancer metastasizes and infects other parts of the body, it's something that you need to be aware of because it can lead to really deadly results. So, with that in mind, here are some potential triggers for skin cancer.
Frequent Sunburns
The most common cause of skin cancer is exposure to the sun. And the worst kind of exposure to the sun is when your skin is roasted. A sun burn is not just something that is aesthetically unpleasant. It's something that can lead to skin cancer. If you were the type of person who went to the beach and laid out without sunscreen, and ended up getting red and blistered on more than one occasion, then you have to be diligent about watching out for the signs of skin cancer. So, if you are the type who has a history of bad sunburns, you need to be watchful for any skin discolorations, moles, or oddities on your skin.
Fair Skin
Some people have skin that is more susceptible to skin cancer than others. The lighter your skin, the more likely it is that you will be in danger of skin cancer. So, if you have very fair skin, it is important that you are vigilant with using sunblock or sunscreen, as well as try and limit your exposure to the sun. It might even be wise to use a skin cream that has a sun block in it year round. Even minor exposure to the sun, over a prolonged period of time, can be damaged.
Family History
The sun is not the only reason people get skin cancer. There are also genetic reasons that people might be more susceptible to getting various forms of skin caner. So, if you have had family members who have had experiences with skin cancer, then it is a sign that you might be genetically predisposed to developing skin cancer. While it is true that the sun is the major cause, it can be more of an issue with persons who have a particular genetic makeup that predisposes them to getting melanomas. So, if you're aunt or uncle, or some other relative, has dealt with the issue, it's a good idea to get yourself checked up more frequently than you might otherwise, such as at Gateway Dermatology PC.
Share