Why are skin cancer cases increasing in India? Experts provide the reason (Image Credit: ISTOCK)
For years, many people believed that skin cancer The melanin was rare in India due to the protective effects of the skin containing melanin. But recent trends suggest that there is a separate story β skin cancerous skin is growing, increasing concerns between doctors and researchers. What is this growth running, and how can we stay preserved? We were in touch with experts who share the main reasons behind it.
What is behind the increase in skin cancer cases?
Dr. Manit Gundavada, Advisor, Orthopedic Oncology at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai states that many factors are contributing to this worrying trend.
1. UV exposure increased With changing lifestyle, people are spending more time outside without enough sun protection, Dr. Gundavada says. UV radiation is a major criminal in cases of skin cancer worldwide, and India is no exception.
2. depletion of the ozone layer β Thin ozone layer means that more harmful UV rays reach the earth, which increases the risk of skin damage. We believed that dark colored skin provided adequate protection, but for a long time UV exposure can still cause DNA damage, causing cancer.
3. Lifestyle and environmental changes -Many people spend hours indoors in air -conditioned offices and then suddenly step into the harsh sunlight. Dr. Gundavada says that this sudden infection can cause damage to the cumulative sun. Pollution and climate change is also considered to play a role.
4. Delayed diagnosis -The skin cancer is still not widely recognized in India, which leads to late phase diagnosis. Unlike Western countries, where people regularly examine their skin, ignore early warning signs such as Indian non-healing wounds or changing moles, they say.
What are the symptoms of skin cancer?
Director of Neurology at Fortis Hospital, Faridabad, Dr. Vineet Banga emphasized the importance of knowing the warnings. It is important to detect initial detection. For these symptoms, look out and see a doctor. If you notice any of them, he gives advice.
β A wound that does not heal.
β Changes in shape, color or size of moles.
β A new lump or development on the skin.
β Constant itching, pain, or bleeding from one place.
β Swelling or dissolution near bones.
Many patients come only when the cancer is advanced. Till then, treatment is more challenging, warning Dr. Banga.
How is skin cancer treated?
Skin Cancer Treatment A multi-disciplinary approach is required. Musculoskeletal oncology plays an important role, especially when the cancer spreads to deep tissues or bones, Dr. Gundavada explains. Here is how experts deal with the disease.
1. Initial diagnosis and staging β Dermatologists and oncologists work together, using advanced imaging techniques such as MRI, CT scan and biopsy to determine how far the cancer has spread.
2. Surgery β If caught early, a comprehensive local sorting can remove cancer tissue when preserving the function. Dr. Gundavada says that in advanced cases where tumor affects soft tissues or bones, organ-salvez surgery may be necessary to avoid dissection.
3. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy β New remedies like checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized skin cancer management, says Dr. Banga. These drugs help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
4. radiation therapy β It is often used when tumors are close to important structures such as joints or bones.
5. Rehabilitation and follow -up β Recovery does not stop in treatment. Surgical rehabilitation ensures dynamics and regular check-up helps to catch any recurrence quickly, Dr. Gundavada explains.
How to protect yourself from skin cancer
Despite progress in treatment, prevention is always better than treatment. Experts recommend the following:
β Use daily sunscreen β SPF 30 or higher is required, even on cloud days, Dr. Banga says.
β Wear protective clothes β Long sleeves, sunglasses and hats can mold your skin with harmful UV rays.
β Avoid peak sun hours β If the sunβs rays are the strongest, try to stay indoors between 10 am and 4 pm.
β Check your skin regularly β Look for new or changing moles, and consult a dermatologist when anything suspicious looks.
β Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet β A strong immune system can help protect against cancer.
Dr. Gundavada says that skin cancer awareness in India is still low, and it needs to be replaced. People should learn to recognize signals quickly and take preventive steps.
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