What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer is the disease that occurs when skin cells are damaged by too much exposure to ultra-violet radiation or sun rays. There are three types of skin cancer: melanoma (the most damaging and dangerous type of skin cancer) basal cell carcinoma squamous cell carcinoma Skin Cancer in Australia 1 in 2 Australian men and 1 in 3 Australian women are diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85. Australia has the highest number of skin cancer patients in the world; we are four times more likely to develop skin cancer than any other type of cancer. Research suggests that 3 in 4 Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 80. What Causes Skin Cancer? Skin cancer's most prominent cause is overexposure to UV (ultra-violet) radiation and sunlight. People who use tanning booths are at risk, as well as people who suffer from immunosuppression (the impairment of the immune system). Undertaking high levels of X-Rays may increase the risk of skin cancer, as well as exposing yourself to harmful chemicals including: arsenic and hydrocarbons (found in tar). Cultural And Social Influences Cultural influences include one's background. People who are from countries with lower levels of UV exposure tend to have an increased chance of getting skin cancer than people who can naturally withstand a strong level of sun exposure. As well as this, people who live in regions that do not experience as much UV radiation have more chances of not suffering from skin cancer. Prevention Of Skin Cancer 1. Slip on some protective clothing that covers your skin as much as possible. Useful items of clothing to wear during swimming are rashies and wetsuits. 2. Slop on some SPF30+ (or higher) sunscreen 20 minutes before partaking in your activity, and every two hours afterwards. 3. Slap on a preferably wide-brimmed hat that covers your face, neck and ears. 4. Seek shade to rest instead of direct sunlight exposure. 5. Slide on a pair of sunglasses. Bibliography: http://www.cancer.org.au/about-cancer/types-of-cancer/skin-cancer.html http://www.skincancer.gov.au/internet/skincancer/publishing.nsf/Content/fact-2 http://www.emedicinehealth.com/skin_cancer/page2_em.htm http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningzone/clips/the-influence-of-cultural-and-genetic-factors-on-skin-cancer-levels/5707.html http://www.cancer.org.au/about-cancer/what-is-cancer/facts-and-figures.html http://www.cancer.org.au/preventing-cancer/sun-protection/preventing-skin-cancer/ |
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