Excessive exposure to sunlight
is the main cause of skin cancer. Sunlight contains ultraviolet
(UV) rays that can alter the genetic material in skin cells,
causing mutations. Sunlamps, tanning booths, and X-rays also
generate UV rays that can damage skin and cause malignant
cell mutations.
Also, people with light skin, colored hair, with abundance
of moles and freckles or having a family history of skin cancer
are more prone to skin cancer.
Warning Signs
The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change in
the appearance of the skin, such as a new growth or a sore
that will not heal.
Types of Skin Cancer
The term "skin cancer" refers to three different
conditions. From the least to the most dangerous, they are:
* Basal cell carcinoma (or basal cell carcinoma epithelioma)
* Squamous cell carcinoma (the first stage of which is called
actinic keratosis)
* Melanoma
Prevention Methods:
1. Limiting recreational sun exposure
2. Avoiding unprotected exposure to the sun during peak radiation
times (the hours surrounding noon)
3. Wearing broad-brimmed hats and tightly-woven protective
clothing while outdoors in the sun;
4. Regularly using a waterproof or water resistant sunscreen
with UVA protection and SPF 30 or higher;
5. Undergoing regular checkups and bringing any suspicious-looking
or changing lesions to the attention of the doctor; and
6. Avoiding the use of tanning beds and using a sunscreen
with an SPF of 30 and protection against UVA (long waves of
ultraviolet light.). Sunscreen must be applied liberally and
reapplied every two to three hours, especially after swimming
or physical activity that promotes perspiration, which can
weaken even sunscreens labeled as "waterproof."
Cosmetics And Cancer
First of all, there is no such thing as "worn-out skin."
Fortunately for us, skin is perennial, self-repairing, and
virtually indestructible. But, everyone is dying to look good
and lot of cosmetics and skin care products have flooded the
market.
A recent study by the non-profit Environmental Working Group
showed that many cosmetic products -- including more than
half of all baby soaps -- contained a carcinogenic chemical.
Internal studies in the cosmetics industry show that many
of their products can be contaminated by a carcinogenic impurity
called 1,4-dioxane. The study found 22 percent of all cosmetic
and skin care products may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane.
To avoid 1,4-dioxane, read ingredient labels and avoid any
of the 56 cosmetic ingredients that can contain the contaminant,
including "sodium laureth sulfate" and ingredients
that include the clauses "PEG," "xynol,"
"ceteareth," and "oleth. It also found that
80 percent of all cosmetic products may be contaminated with
one or more carcinogenic impurities.
In addition to 1,4-dioxane, six
other major impurities are hydroquinone, ethylene dioxide,
formaldehyde, nitrosamines, PAHs, and acrylamides. So, take
a look at the labels before buying a cosmetic.
Video: Ways to protect yourself from Skin Cancer
The Golden Rules for Life
"Don't
let someone become a priority in your life,
when you are just an option in their life.
Relationships work best when they are balanced."
-- Unknown
Disclaimer: The above content is provided
for information and awareness purpose only. It is not prescriptive
or suggestive or meant to replaces your qualified physician's
advice or consultation.
"Don't
let someone become a priority in your life, 
