What Causes Skin Cancer

Cancer happens when cells in the body are damaged and start dividing and growing out of control, forming tumors. Many things – called carcinogens – cause that damage. Ultraviolet (UV) light, such as from the sun, is a carcinogen. Exposure to UV light is the most preventable cause of skin cancer. UV rays can cause other problems too, such as aging the skin, eventually resulting in wrinkles and age spots. They also cause cataracts, which can cloud the lens of the eye and interfere with vision.

Skin cancer is:

• Caused by both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays can come right through windows, but UVB rays don't.
  
• More likely in people who have:
  
  • Moles
  • Fair skin
  • Blond or red hair
  • Light-colored eyes
    
• Hereditary. About one in 10 skin cancers are inherited. If a close relative (father, mother, brother, sister, child) has had melanoma (the most deadly form of skin cancer), you and your child are at much higher risk for getting it.

Everybody – regardless of their skin coloring or family history – needs to protect their skin from the sun.

Next: Preventing Skin Cancer