Transcript Skin Cancer

SKIN CANCER
How Cancer Occurs
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Cancer develops only in cells with damaged genes
(mutations).
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If the genes that regulate the cell cycle are damaged, the
cells will divide out of control
Mutations can be inherited
or caused by exposure to:
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Low-dose radiation
Drugs
Toxic chemicals
 Infection
with certain
viruses can cause mutations.
 Lifestyle plays a major role
in cancer prevention.
Skin Cancer
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Related to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
from the sun as well as tanning beds.
Three types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC.
All types are harmful and have potential to cause
skin cancer.
UVA is associated with immediate tanning, skin
cancer formation, and premature aging effects.
UVB is associated with delayed tanning and
burning; also contributes to premature aging (most
is filtered by the atmosphere)
UVC is the most damaging but it is completely
filtered by earth’s atmosphere
http://www.who.int/uv/faq/whatisuv/en/index2.html
Skin Cancer (continued)
– Artificial UV sources may also generate UVC rays
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UVC is potent cancer-causing radiation
Earth’s atmosphere filters natural UVC
Prevention
 Limit
sun exposure
 Use sunscreens
 Wear protective clothing when exposed to sunlight
 Avoid artificial sources of UV light (i.e., tanning beds).
Types of Skin Cancer: Melanoma
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If you are high risk for malignant melanoma, check skin
regularly for skin legions that:
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asymmetrical (A)
 Have irregular borders (B)
 Have multiple colors (C)
 Have a diameter greater than pencil eraser (D)
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Prevention
Limit sun exposure
 Use sunscreens
 Wear protective clothing when exposed to sunlight
 Avoid artificial sources of UV light (i.e., tanning beds)
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Reducing Skin Cancer Risk
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Follow ACS’s recommendations for cancer screening tests.
Know warning signs of cancer and see your health care
provider immediately if you detect any.
When in the sun, takes steps to limit UV radiation
exposure.
Avoid unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation, such as
x-rays and UV light.
Don’t lie in the sun or tanning beds.
Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.