Introduction
As the summer months approach, it’s important to be aware of the dangers of skin cancer. While many people are aware of the risks associated with sun exposure, there are other bad habits that can lead to skin cancer as well. According to a doctor, these habits include smoking, drinking alcohol, and eating unhealthy foods. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your risk of skin cancer by making healthier lifestyle choices. Eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones can help you stay healthy and protect your skin. In this article, we’ll discuss the bad habits that lead to skin cancer and provide tips on what to eat and what to avoid.
Bad Habits That Lead to Skin Cancer, Says Doctor — Eat This Not That
Skin cancer is a serious health concern, and it’s important to be aware of the habits that can increase your risk. According to Dr. Roberta Sengelmann, a dermatologist at the University of California, San Francisco, there are certain behaviors that can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
Avoid Sun Exposure
One of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of skin cancer is to avoid excessive sun exposure. This means avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Additionally, Dr. Sengelmann recommends avoiding tanning beds, as they can also increase your risk of skin cancer.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Dr. Sengelmann also recommends limiting your alcohol consumption, as it can increase your risk of skin cancer. Alcohol can damage the skin’s protective barrier, making it more vulnerable to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Additionally, alcohol can also reduce the body’s ability to repair itself after sun exposure.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is also important for reducing your risk of skin cancer. Dr. Sengelmann recommends eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, as they are rich in antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage. Additionally, she recommends avoiding processed foods, as they can contain chemicals that can increase your risk of skin cancer.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is another habit that can increase your risk of skin cancer. According to Dr. Sengelmann, smoking can damage the skin’s protective barrier, making it more vulnerable to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Additionally, smoking can also reduce the body’s ability to repair itself after sun exposure.
Conclusion
By avoiding sun exposure, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a healthy diet, and quitting smoking, you can reduce your risk of skin cancer. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any changes in your skin, and to see a doctor if you notice any suspicious moles or spots.
New cases of skin cancer in 2022 number in the millions. Skin cancer is the number 1 type of cancer in the US. There are many different types of skin cancer. The most common are basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, then melanoma. In 2022 it is expected that about 7,650 people are expected to die of melanoma. About 2,000 people in the US die each year from basal and squamous cell skin cancers.
These types of skin cancer are usually curable if caught early. However, they can be deadly if left untreated.
Bad habits increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
The best way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV radiation is the main cause of skin cancer.
Indoor tanning is particularly dangerous because it exposes you to high levels of UV radiation. Just one indoor tanning session can increase your risk of developing melanoma by 20 percent.
Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs, and a hat with a wide brim to shade your face, neck, and ears.
Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen is advisable, on with an SPF of 30 or higher. Every 2 hours put a liberal amount of sunscreen on, more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
The sun’s rays are strongest during these hours, so it’s best to stay in the shade during this time.
A bad sunburn can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Childhood sunburns are particularly dangerous because they can lead to melanoma later in life.
If you don’t check your skin regularly, you’re more likely to miss early signs of skin cancer. Be sure to perform a self-exam at least once a month. If you have any moles or other changes in your skin, make an appointment to see a dermatologist right away.
Smoking cigarettes increases your risk of skin cancer since it weakens your immune system and damages the DNA in your skin cells. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your skin — and your health.
If you have a parent or sibling who’s had skin cancer, you’re at an increased risk for the disease. This is not a bad habit! It just the way it is. This is why it’s so important to perform regular self-exams and see a dermatologist regularly for screenings.
Some chemicals, such as arsenic and coal tar, can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
These bad habits put you at an increased risk of developing skin cancer. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. Be sure to wear sunscreen, stay out of the sun during peak hours, and check your skin regularly for changes. If you have a family history of skin cancer, be sure to see a dermatologist regularly for screenings. And if you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your skin — and your health! And to protect your life and the lives of others, don’t visit any of these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.
Gethin Williams MD Ph.D. is the Medical Director of Imaging & Interventional Specialists
Gethin Williams, MD, Ph.D