Can Past Injuries Cause Skin Cancer? Expert

Rising Cases Of Skin Cancer

According to the World Health Organization, over the past few decades, the prevalence of skin cancers, both melanoma and non-melanoma, has been rising. Presently, 132,000 melanoma skin cancers and 2 to 3 million non-melanoma skin cancers happen annually throughout the world. According to statistics from the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer accounts for one out of every three cancer diagnoses. The most deadly type, melanoma, is predicted to increase by 6% by 2025. The incidence of melanoma is rising more quickly in women under 30 than in any other age group.

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Can Past Injuries Cause Skin Cancer?

Dr SK Waheed Hussain, Pediatric Hematologist-Oncologist And BMT Physician, Sindhu Hospital, Hyderabad, says "absolutely yes”.  “Although injuries do not directly cause skin cancer, they can occasionally contribute to its development or identification. In particular, severe skin injuries or persistent inflammation can raise the risk of developing some forms of skin cancer, especially squamous cell carcinoma, in the affected area. Additionally, while treating an injury in that area, a pre-existing cancerous growth may be found,” Dr Waheed adds. Research also corroborates Dr Waheed. A 2008 study by Karolinska University Hospital and Institute suggests that although very uncommon phenomena, the development of malignant tumours in chronic burn wounds or scars is a commonly reported consequence. Squamous cell carcinoma makes up the majority of these tumours; malignant melanoma and basal cell carcinoma are reported less frequently. It typically takes 20 to 30 years or longer between the initial burn and the tumor's diagnosis.The Swedish researchers found 37,095 patients who had been admitted to the hospital due to burn injuries using the national Inpatient Registry. 

Other Possible Causes Of Skin Cancer 

• Ultraviolet Radiation: Excessive exposure to sunlight and use of tanning beds may increase the risk of skin cancer. 
• Genetic Predisposition: Genetics also play a big role when it comes to determining how prone a person is to developing skin cancer. As an example, people with darker skin are less likely to develop skin cancer. 
• Other Factors: These may include chemical exposure (long-term), age and history of sunburns.

What Precautions Can You Take?

According to Dr Waheed, following are some of the precautions you can take in order to minimise the risk of developing skin cancer:

• Limit exposure to UV rays.
• Treat Sunburns immediately 
• Use sunscreen even on cloudy days
• Avoid Tanning Beds
• Wear protective clothing
• Avoid Sun lamps