Skin cancer is caused by free radicals coursing through the body. This causes the genes in some cells to start to mutate, which results into an oncogene that promotes tumor growth. Often, it isn't 100% clear exactly which condition or conditions actually cause the cancer growth. However, with skin cancer, it is believe that the cause is mainly UV (ultraviolet) radiation exposure.
Common Causes of Squamous Cell Skin Cancer:
While sun exposure and sunbed exposure are believed to be the most common causes of squamous cell skin cancers, there are plenty of people who are exposed to high levels of UV radiation but don't develop cancer. This is because some people have a sensitivity to this type of radiation, which is in turn dependent on how much melanin the body has. Melanin protects the skin from the sun, turning it brown to stop it from burning.
For people who have low levels of melanin, they are usually paler. They will also generally burn before they tan. Most people know this, and they also know that those with fair hair and blue eyes tend to fall in this category. Hence, they are more likely to develop skin cancer as well.
The Effects of Squamous Cell Skin Cancer:
There are three types of skin cancer, one of which is squamous cell. It is known that the most common cause of squamous cell skin cancer is sunbed or sunlight exposure, because the cancers almost always appear on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun the most. Squamous cell cancer does not always spread, but it usually spreads more quickly than basal cell skin cancer. If it does spread, it usually only affects the cells just around it. Generally, you will see a brown or red mark on the skin, that grows over time.
How to Prevent Squamous Cell Skin Cancer:
Squamous cell skin cancer is a highly treatable form of skin cancer, although it is still considered to be a serious health problem. The earlier you identify that you have the disease, the more likely it will be that you can treat it successfully. However, it is always better to prevent diseases than to cure them. Hence, you must put measures in place to stop you from developing it in the first place. This is particularly true for people who are in a risk factor group, such as those with fair skin.
To prevent squamous cell skin cancer, you must limit how much exposure you have to UV radiation, be that directly through the sun, or through sunbeds and other tanning methods. This is the best form of prevention of all. Hence, wear sunscreen when you go out, cover up as much as possible, and try to find places in the shade. Additionally, you should consider getting checked by a doctor regularly, and get to know your own skin so that you can spot any changes or newly developed moles on your skin. Never be afraid to request medical attention if you have any concerns about a part of your skin, no matter how small it is.