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Posts Tagged ‘Ultraviolet Radiation’

Understanding Skin Cancer

Wednesday, February 23rd, 2011

One of the sad reality is that we, people, face a risk of illness. It is even sadder when the disease we face is terminal or lead to death. There are many diseases that can be regarded as terminal, but among those who are now very common skin cancers. In fact, among the different types of cancer, this is the most popular. Although there are three forms of the disease – carcinoma basal cell, carcinoma cells and melanoma scales – a fact that it is the terminal are enough to alarm us. As we know, there is still no definitive cure for the disease, that’s why the best defense we have against it is prevention.

Fortunately, there are some things we can do to prevent skin cancer. One is by simply avoiding the sun when possible. If we must go under the sun, we should never forget to apply sunscreen on all exposed body parts. Some people apply sunscreen everywhere on their body except their face. Overexposure to the sun’s rays is known to cause melanoma, but overexposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause basal cell carcinoma.

It is important for parents to know that their children could be the most at risk because of their young age. These kids tend to have very thin skin compared to that of adults and because of this, the sun’s rays can more easily penetrate through their bodies. Skin cancer is known to start in childhood, so it is important that parents always get their kids in the habit of using sunscreens.

Another thing we can do is boost our immune system by consuming foods that are known to have this effect. For example, citrus fruits are great for this purpose because of their high ascorbic acid or Vitamin C content. When we have a weak immune system, we have a greater chance of developing cancer. That’s why we need to strengthen our immunity to decrease the odds of getting the disease.

Sometimes, however, cancer can only be in our genes, but it does not mean we should just accept this without fighting. This means making the right food choices and regular exercise. For those who are genetically predisposed to cancer, eating foods rich in antioxidants is a must. Antioxidants are substances that anti-mutant cells is characterized by all types of cancer. More and more in today’s world, people are leaving what we know as traditional medicine in favor of their natural counterparts.

Preventing Skin Cancer

Thursday, December 10th, 2009

Skin cancer is a dangerous disease. It is important to get it checked as soon as you discover some of the symptoms that indicate skin cancer. However, as the experts have always said, ‘prevention is better than cure.’ You should focus on prevention skin cancer from attacking your skin. Skin plays a vital role in keeping you healthy. It is the largest organ in your body, and it protects you from potential problems caused by such factors as dehydration, the sun, bacterial infections, and pollution. However, there are limits to the skin’s ability to provide protection. Various factors can cause damage that cannot be repaired. This is how skin cancer may develop. Most people are unable to treat skin cancer on time because they do not come to know that they have skin cancer. Certain outgrowths, moles and discoloration on the skin are taken as normal skin problems.

Anyone can develop skin cancer. It does not attack any particular age, race or skin type. Certain skin types are more vulnerable to skin cancer as compared to others. People with fair skin, light hair and light eye colour or a large number of moles or freckles are more vulnerable. One of the main causes of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet radiation, or UV rays. UV rays are invisible, and are produced by the sun and tanning lamps. Most often, skin cancer is the result of overexposure to the sun.

Make sure that you protect yourself from the harmful ultra-violet rays of sun. Apply a good sunscreen with high SPF or sun protection factor generously before going out in the sun. Re-apply 15 to 30 minutes after sun exposure begins. You should also re-apply sunscreen after vigorous activity that could remove the product, such as swimming, towelling or excessive sweating and rubbing.

Arrange your time in the sun for morning or afternoon, and avoid high noon. Dress in dark colours and protective clothing. Also wear good quality sunglasses to protect your eyes and surrounding tissues. Select shaded areas for outdoor activities. Always use sunscreen and lip balm. Limit exposure to reflective surfaces such as snow, water, concrete and sand. Remember that water activities can increases exposure to reflective UV rays.

Most people are under a notion that a tanning bed can be safe option. A tanning-bed can be more dangerous than exposing your skin to sun’s rays. Better is to use a sunless tanning lotion. It is available in different varieties for different skin types. Remember that a sunless tan lotion will not provide you SPF protection. The rule is that the best colour for you is the one you were born with. Keep checking your body regularly for any moles lesions or skin irregulation. See your doctor right away if you notice an abnormally dark or discoloured patches or spots, or bleeding, crusting or change in the colour, size, or shape of a mole.