Skin cancer can be a very serious medical condition. If you are in a risk group for skin cancer, it is important that you understand the causes and risks.
Family History
Non-melanoma type cancers do not run in families; however, some families may have a higher risk than others. You may have a higher risk of developing squamous cell skin cancer if a parent developed this type of skin cancer. Alternatively, those with a family history of melanoma do have a higher risk of basal cell skin cancer.
It is important to note that skin type does run in families, so those with fair-skinned relatives are in a higher risk group. Also, there are some inherited genes that can increase the risk of developing melanoma skin cancer.
Age
As we age, we are more likely to develop non-melanoma cancers; however, these skin cancers can also develop in younger people as well.
Sun Exposure
Most skin cancers are a result of sun exposure. It can be long or short term exposure with intense exposure and burning. The ultraviolet light from the sun actually damages the DNA in the skin cells to create skin cancer. Unfortunately, this damage can happen years before the symptoms of skin cancer appear.
Certain Skin Conditions
Those who have skin conditions can also be in a high-risk group for developing skin cancer. These skin conditions may include
• Solar keratosis
• Xeroderma pigmentosum
• Those undergoing psoriasis and/or eczema treatments
Other Risk Groups
There are other risk groups that may put you in a higher risk group including
• Chemical exposure
• Human papilloma virus
• Birthmarks
• Past radiation exposure
• Weakened immune system
If you are in any of these higher risk groups, it is important to be aware of potential skin cancer causes. Additionally, it is very important that you try to reduce the risk factors, the most important being proper skin care and reduction in sun exposure.
Says Dr. Thomas Wright of the Laser Lipo and Vein Center, “Skin cancer can be easily and effectively treated if diagnosed in its earliest stages. We emphasis the importance of self skin checks and see a physician should any symptoms be seen.”
“We urge anyone who wants to know if they are in higher risk groups or just want more information to contact us today. Our staff is very knowledgeable about skin cancer, how to avoid it, and how to effectively treat it.”
