Differentiate between the three main types of skin cancer and discuss how you can prevent too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

ANSWER: 1. Basal cell carcinoma. Basal cells form the base, or the innermost layer of the epidermis.
2. Squamous cell carcinoma. Squamous originates from the word "scale." These flatter cells form the outside layer of the epidermis and shed as new cells form.
3. Malignant melanoma. Melanoma originates in cells that create melanin, which gives color to skin.

Sun lamps and tanning parlors provide mainly ultraviolet A (UVA) rays. Once thought to be safe, they, too, are now known to be damaging and have been linked to melanoma. Sunscreen lotion should be applied about 30 minutes before lengthy exposure to the sun because the skin takes that long to absorb the protective ingredients. Select sunscreens labeled "broad-spectrum," as these products block both UVA and UVB rays. A sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 is recommended. During peak hours, reapplication is vital. For face protection on an average day, it is probably most realistic for the majority of people to apply sunscreen in the morning and then wear a protective hat when outdoors the remainder of the day. When swimming or sweating especially, you should reapply waterproof sunscreens more often because all sunscreens lose strength when they are diluted. If you plan on being out in the sun for a lengthy period of time, even better than sunscreen is wearing protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat with a two- to three-inch brim all the way around.