In most countries around the world, skin cancer is the most
common type of cancer. The number of patients diagnosed with it is
constantly growing. One of the major reasons for this is that people are
not well aware of the factors which increase their risk of getting this
condition. In addition to genetics and skin tone, there are other
factors which can put you at higher risk. Among them, you will find
activities which are enjoyed by most of us.
Indoor Tanning
The
use of tanning beds is extremely widespread at present. Many people use
them on a regular basis to get a darker complexion. This fashion is
quite popular among young adults and young women, in particular. Many
start to use tanning beds in their teen years.
The problem with
tanning beds is that the UV light which they produce is about 15 times
stronger than the sunlight outdoors. This means that it causes more
damage to skin cells more quickly. As a result, the people who use
tanning beds frequently are 74% more likely to develop melanoma, the
deadliest of all types of skin cancer, compared to those who have never
done it. These people have 67% higher risk of squamous cell carcinoma
and 29% higher risk of basal cell carcinoma.
Indoor tanning is
considered to be the main cause of skin cancer in young people. A recent
study has revealed that people who enjoy the activity regularly are 60%
more likely to get this condition before the age of 50. Another study
showed that over the past 40 years the rate of this condition in young
adults increased by 800%. Much of this increase is attributed to the
huge popularity of tanning beds.
Outdoor Sports
Professional
and amateur athletes involved in outdoor sports are at higher risk of
skin cancer due to several factors. The primary one is the long-term
exposure to the sun's UV radiation. The improper use of sunscreen can
also play a role. While sunscreen provided protection, it is removed
more quickly from the skin because of perspiration. That is why it has
to be reapplied every 2 to 3 hours.
The athletes who practice high
up in the mountain are exposed to stronger UV radiation. This means
that they have to use sunscreen with higher SPF and sunglasses and hats
which offer better protection. The athletes engaging in water sports
require better protection as well due to the fact that the water acts
like a magnifying for the sun while washing away the applied sunscreen.
Take the best protective measures to lower your risk of skin cancer.
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