Skin Cancer: Understanding the Risk Factors
Introduction
Skin cancer is a serious health problem that affects millions of people around the world. Although anyone can develop skin cancer, there are certain groups that are more prone to the disease than others.
Risk Factors for Melanoma
In particular, men, the wealthy, and people living in maritime areas are often the most susceptible to melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer.
Study Examining the Risk in Atlantic Canada
A new study from McGill University has examined why those who live in the Atlantic regions have a higher risk of developing skin cancer than others.
In the study, the researchers compared UV exposure and the behavior of different groups in Atlantic Canada based on income, education, and gender, among other factors.
Gender Differences
The study found that men are more likely than women to develop skin cancer, in part because men tend to spend more time outdoors and use less sunscreen and protective clothing. Men also engage in more outdoor activities, such as sports, which increase their exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.
Impact of Socioeconomic Status
Wealthy people have a higher risk of developing skin cancer. People with higher incomes are more likely to develop skin cancer because they tend to spend more time in the sun. They may also travel more frequently to sunny locations for vacations or business trips. In addition, wealthy people may use tanning beds more often, which can increase their risk of developing skin cancer.
Similarly, people with higher education were more likely to be in the sun during their leisure time but less likely to use a tanning bed.
“It is well known that higher socioeconomic status is associated with more sun exposure and recreational activities, which is likely to eventually lead to skin cancer incidence among these individuals.”
Coastal Population
Researchers have found that those who live close to the coast or work on ships are more likely to develop skin cancer because they are exposed to higher levels of ultraviolet radiation. This is because the sun’s rays are more intense near water and can reflect off the surface of the water and hit the skin. Marine dwellers may also spend more time outdoors and use less sunscreen or wear protective clothing.
Gender Differences in Sunscreen Usage
By looking at differences between men and women, researchers found that women were less exposed to the sun and used more sun protection than men. Men were more likely to report more sunburn throughout their lifetime, as well as from sun exposure both at work and recreationally. They also had higher rates of melanoma and other skin cancers.
However, women tend to wear less long-sleeved shirts and use tanning salons more often, which the researchers say explains a previous study showing that women are more likely to develop skin cancer on their extremities.
And when it comes to skin cancer prevention, a study found that men expressed more negative opinions about sunscreen use than women. In accordance with this, women were more attentive to new moles and more willing to seek medical help from their family doctor.
The researchers explain that these behaviors may be responsible for the lower incidence and mortality from skin cancer in women.
Conclusion
Overall, the researchers say it’s important for everyone to take steps to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. This includes using sunscreen, wearing sun-protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during solar peak hours. By taking these precautions, we can all reduce our risk of developing skin cancer.
Source: Medical Express