risks
A risk factor is anything that increases your likelihood of developing a disease like cancer. When it comes to skin cancer, there are several risk factors that can contribute to the development of this disease. Fortunately, many of these risks can be addressed by you.
your skin cancer risk.
INDOOR TANNING
Tanning outside or indoors can have dangerous consequences. While often associated with good health, the “glow” of a tan is the very opposite of healthy; it’s evidence of DNA injury to your skin. Tanning damages your skin cells and speeds up visible signs of aging. Worst of all, tanning can lead to skin cancer.
SUNBURN
Sunburn accelerates skin aging and is a leading cause in the majority of cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
SKIN TONE
Your skin type is a major factor in your risk for skin cancer, including melanoma. And while it’s true that people with lighter skin tones are more at risk for sunburn, sun damage and skin cancer, UV exposure can raise skin cancer risk even if you tan and don’t burn. That’s why it makes sense to know the skin you’re in.
UV EXPOSURE
UV radiation is part of the natural energy produced by the sun. On the electromagnetic spectrum, UV light has shorter wavelengths than visible light, so your eyes can’t see UV, but your skin can feel it. Tanning beds also emit UV radiation.
GENETICS
Tanning outside or indoors can have dangerous consequences. While often associated with good health, the “glow” of a tan is the very opposite of healthy; it’s evidence of DNA injury to your skin. Tanning damages your skin cells and speeds up visible signs of aging. Worst of all, tanning can lead to skin cancer.
ATYPICAL MOLES
Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are unusual-looking moles that have irregular features under the microscope. Though benign, they are worth more of your attention because individuals with atypical moles are at increased risk for melanoma, a dangerous skin cancer.
ORGAN TRANSPLANTS
Tanning outside or indoors can have dangerous consequences. While often associated with good health, the “glow” of a tan is the very opposite of healthy; it’s evidence of DNA injury to your skin. Tanning damages your skin cells and speeds up visible signs of aging. Worst of all, tanning can lead to skin cancer.
RED HAIR
Sunburn accelerates skin aging and is a leading cause in the majority of cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
