Many cases of a widely found skin cancer, called melanoma, have been reported in these age groups. UV (ultraviolet) sun damage is one of the leading causes of melanoma. Cells that have been damaged, particularly by short bouts of bad, blistering sunburns as a child or regular tanning bed use as a teen or young adult, are more likely to develop cancer. Melanoma can develop in places where there is no dark spot or bump. Melanoma develops when melanocytes cease to function normally. They begin to grow out of control as a result of a genetic change (mutation), sticking together to form tumours, crowding out healthy cells, and damaging surrounding tissue. Hence, dermatologists urge people of all ages to protect their skin and practise sun safety. Dr. D M Mahajan, MBBS, MD (Dermatology), DLO (ENT), Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, explains the factors contributing to surge in skin cancer cases among young people as well as shares tips to reduce the risk. Reasons behind the rise in...
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