Skin cancer happens when the cells in your skin begin to develop abnormal DNA, the abnormal DNA then causes the growth and development of cancer cells. There are many types of skin cancer, based on what cells are involved. The most common causes of skin cancer are exposure to the ultraviolet (UV) tanning beds and exposure to cancer-causing chemicals.
Following are lifestyle changes you may take to reduce the risks of skin cancer by WebMD.
Don’t skip sunscreen – It’s the next best thing to staying out of the sun altogether. Slather a thick layer onto all exposed skin. Use “broad spectrum” sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 or higher. Wear it even on cloudy or cool days. Reapply every 2 hours, or more often if you swim or sweat a lot.
Sun proof your car – drivers are more likely to get skin cancer on their driving sides, which get the brunt of the sun’s damaging rays. You might want to keep a hat and sunscreen handy in the glove box. It also helps to put the windows and — if you ride a convertible — the top up. (Sorry!) A special film can line your vehicle’s glass to block UV light.
Wear sunglasses – your eyes and the delicate skin around them need protection, too. Ultraviolet rays can turn the lenses behind your pupils cloudy, a condition called cataracts. They may even lead to macular degeneration that could cost you your vision. Some less expensive sunglasses have UVA and UVB rays, it is important to also make sure that they have a UV 400-blocking lens.
Eat more vegetables and fruits – UV light damages antioxidants, chemicals that help keep your cells healthy. You get most of your antioxidants from plant-based foods, and studies show it may help to eat more of them. Oranges and other citrus fruits are packed with the antioxidant vitamin C. Carrots and squash are good sources of beta carotene. And lycopene, which makes fruits red, is found in watermelon, tomatoes, and pink grapefruit, among other fruits and vegetables.
Know your risk – if you have a skin cancer family history, do share that with your doctor. Other things that make you more likely to get cancer or sun damage include lighter skin, hair, and eyes, or a history of sunburns, large, numerous, or oddly shaped freckles or moles, autoimmune diseases like lupus, or a weakened immune system from conditions like HIV or AIDS.
