Sun Tanning Research Paper

1637 Words7 Pages
What is it? Sun tanning is when a person exposes themselves to the sun in order to achieve a browner skin colour (become tanned). According to skincancer.org, “The most dangerous form of skin cancer, these cancerous growths develop when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells (most often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine or tanning beds) triggers mutations (genetic defects) that lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. These tumors originate in the pigment-producing melanocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis. Melanomas often resemble moles; some develop from moles. The majority of melanomas are black or brown, but they can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white. Melanoma is caused mainly…show more content…
First, the UV rays can damage the DNA in the skin cells which can make the skin develop abnormally and grow benign or malignant growths. The second way is that the UV rays weaken the immune system and compromise it which can disallow the body's natural defenses against aggressive cancer cells. Symptoms of Melanoma Early on, melanoma does not have many symptoms, it may itch or feel painful at times but nothing serious should happen. If melanoma develops then it will spread, ooze, bleed, and feel painful. How to Prevent…show more content…
According to americanskin.org, "Melanoma begins on the skin where it is easy to see and treat. However, it can grow into the skin, reaching the blood vessels and lymphatics, and can spread within the body to various organs when it can be fatal. If it is recognized and treated early, chances of recovery are very good. But if it is not found early, it can grow deeper into the skin, and spread to other parts of the body. Once melanoma spreads beyond the skin to other parts of the body, it becomes hard to treat and can be fatal." In fact, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation "approximately 10 000 people die from melanoma every year." Since UV exposure is the leading cause for melanoma it is important that people try to avoid UV rays as much as possible. Also, people who live in places with hot weather or work outside should be extra careful. Tanning is something that young people think is “cool” and many of them do it, they should know the effect it is having on their
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