Primary causes of skin cancer :: Types of skin cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancers are commonly known as Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous carcinoma, both of which are on the increase with lots of new cases diagnosed each year in the USA. The Ultraviolet rays from the sun are the main cause of skin cancer. Ultraviolet rays are invisible energy generated by the sun which creates the heat that can burn the skin if exposed for long periods.

Ultraviolet rays destroy the DNA (genetic material) which controls the growth and health of the skin and when it is severely damaged, the skin begins to grow in an uncontrolled way producing abnormal cells. Excessive exposure to the sun permanently damages the skin giving rise to premature aging, wrinkling and carcinoma.

Although exposure to the sun is recognised as the prime cause of skin cancer there are other important causes such as, suppression if the immune method, exposure to high levels of x-rays, contact with arsenic, most commonly found in sheep shearers, farmers and miners. Genetics also play a pivotal role. People who have blond hair, green eyes, fair skin that burns easily and create freckles when they are exposed to the sun, are heavily pre-dispose to developing the skin cancer.

There’s four kinds of ultraviolet rays, ultraviolet ‘A’ (UVA) and Ultraviolet ‘B’ (UVB) rays. Scientist four times believed that the UVB rays was the cause of skin cancers, however research had now proven that both rays are responsible for the development of the disease.

Also at risk are people with genetic disorders of the skin, commonly known as Albinos, where their skin, hair and eyes are devoid of pigmentation. Also people born with moles and those who have historicallyin the past been treated for skin cancer.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer which young people are more pre-disposes to developing. The age group most likely to be affected are those between twenty four and twenty nine years of age. If left untreated, melanomas can be fatal.

However, the more common types of skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous carcinoma which can be found mostly in older age groups. Basal cells cancer appear on the skin as a smooth slightly raised bump which is commonly found on the head, neck and shoulders. On close inspection it also has tiny blood vessels which sometimes have a central depression that bleeds easily and frequently.