Sun Damage and Skin Cancer

Sun Damage / Skin cancer
by Jessica Pratt

Thesis Statement:
We cannot live without oxygen, and we cannot live without the sun. Yet the sun is, the skins worst enemy. Today I am going to show you examples of skin cancer, so that if and when you see abnormalities, you will be more aware of what they are and what they could transform into if not treated.

I. Introduction:
The sun projects three basic kinds of ultraviolet rays, or UV rays.
A. UVC rays are short rays that are blocked by the ozone layer. They have germicidal properties, and in large doses are deadly.
B. UVB Ultraviolet B rays are the next longest ultraviolet rays. Cause most skin cancers, and are responsible for sunburns. They penetrate the epidermis to the basal layer.
C. Melanocytes- within the basal layer and upper dermis the melanocytes are the cells that produce the pigments for the skin.
1.The skins pigment is the body’s natural sunscreen. Although many people think a tan is healthy, it is actually a chemical reaction of the body defending itself from the damaging rays of the sun.
2. Melanin is the pigment of the skin. A suntan is actually DNA damage to your skin.

II. Body:
A. What is cancer?
1. A cancer starts as a single cell that is “mutated,” genetically changes so that the cell no longer is controlled by normal regulatory mechanisms.
2. The 3 Main Types of Skin cancers are: Basal cell carcinomas, Squamous cell carcinomas, and Malignant Melanoma.

Basal cell carcinoma- usually appears as raised, translucent lumps. Although the disease does not usually spread to other parts of the body through the blood stream, it may cause considerable damage by direct growth and invasion.

Squamous cell carcinoma- usually distinguished by raised reddish lumps or growths. The disease can spread to other parts of the body. Approximately 2,000 deaths occur each year from this form of cancer.

Malignant melanoma- first appears as a light brown to black irregularly shaped blemish. This serious form of cancer results in death if undetected and untreated. It can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and the lymph drainage system.

B. Sunscreen
Sunscreen and Sun blocks are effective in reducing sunburn, photo aging, and are effective in reducing pre-cancerous and squamous cell carcinomas.
Don’t get lazy on cloudy days. You can still get burned despite cloud coverage.
Sunglasses should be worn to prevent from cataracts of the eye. You don’t have to wear elderly inspired blue blockers. Look for UV-blocking lenses and a wrap around frame that will shield practically all cancer and wrinkle causing rays.

III. Conclusion:
Remember the consequences of unprotected skin. When you have to be outside during peak sun hours, wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses. Take special care to cover your neck because it is also vulnerable for sunburns.

Works Sited
1.Dr. Trimble, MD PowerPoint
2. Skin Care beyond the basics Mark Lees
3. Barrowed the Total Block Cream from the Skin Institute for my demonstration