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Main > Specialty Areas > Oncology >
Causes of Skin Cancer
Exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sun is the most common cause of skin cancer. Other important causes of skin cancer include the following:
Use of Ultraviolet(UV) Lamps for skin tanning
Weak body immune system which helps protects the body from germs or foreign substances.
High levels exposure of x-rays
Contamination of certain chemicals like Arsenic, hydrocarbons in tar, oils, and soot.
The following are the certain characteristics of people which prone to skin cancer:
Those with fair or light colored skin, especially types that freckle, sunburn easily, or become painful in the sun.
Those with certain genetic disorders that deplete skin pigment.
Those who have history of skin cancer.
Those with unusual moles or large moles from their childhood.
Those with close family members have history of skin cancer.
Those who had history of severe sunburn early in life.
Basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas are common in all age groups. Melanomas are more common in younger people of 25-30 years.
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| Random Useful Tip: |
Epinephrine shot If you are known to have a severe anaphylactic reaction, carry an epinephrine (adrenaline) shot with you at all times. Pay attention to expiration date and replace it regularly: upon expiration, it loses its effectiveness. |
| Random Drug Info: |
Acyclovir Acyclovir is a medication that is used to treat herpes infections of the skin, lips and genitals, chicken pox and shingles. It comes in the form of ointments, tablets, capsules or liquids. It relieves pain and itchiness and promotes healing; however, it does not cure the condition. Possible (but not common) side effects include headaches, upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea. Severe side effects, such as severe rash or itching, blood in the urine, stomach pain or fever are even less common, but require prompt medical attention. |
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