Is Skin Cancer Hereditary?

Is skin cancer hereditary? Some forms of cancer are not taken seriously enough. Such is the case with skin cancer. Skin cancer is not hereditary as such, however, it is your hereditary skin type that can predispose you to developing skin cancer. So in my opinion, if asked is skin cancer hereditary, I would have to say probably yes.

Skin cancer is usually seen as a malignant growth that appears on the outer layer of your skin or epidermis. This type of cancer is often associated with recurring sunburns or overexposure under the sun's glare. Also, it is becoming a cause for concern especially where ultraviolet radiation is its most intense due to the damage of the earth's ozone layer which used to filter the harmful effects of the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Skin cancer mostly affects people who are fair-skinned and have that Anglo/Celtic descent. Statistically, with a ratio between 40% and 50%, Caucasians will be more likely to develop it. True to form, skin cancer is more common in places with searing heat such as tropical countries or places near the subtropics.

Skin cancer is divided into three categories; basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common and the least serious although it can be very destructive to local tissue. Basal cell carcinoma has a hereditary factor but fortunately, it can be treated with surgery or topical chemotherapy.

Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that appears on both your skin tissues and your internal organs. It results from several elements such as exposure to the sun or toxic chemicals which absorb through the skin.

Lastly, Melanoma is the most dangerous when not treated early. Melanoma can start progressing in pigmented tissue, resulting from too much sun exposure or it could develop in a mole or a birthmark. Usually, melanoma can be found on your back and torso, your palms and fingernails, your foot and toenails, your vagina or even in your eye.

So really, when it comes to our skin, is cancer heridary? Again, the attributes of skin cancer may be preventable given the proper precautionary measures. However, the type of skin that you have can predispose you to its development.

So if you love the beach, make it a routine to arm your self with sun protection. Even if it is just a minor way to shield you from the sun's rays, it is a big step to preventing skin cancer. Also, have a consultation with your doctor. Even if you already have skin cancer, early detection can help in treating it.