Archive for September, 2009

Skin Cancer Caused by the Sun

Friday, September 25th, 2009

The uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells leads to skin cancer. This results in benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumors. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation that is given out by the sun is the number one cause for skin cancer, but the UV light that comes from tanning beds is just as dangerous.

Exposure to the sun during winter is as harmful as exposure to the sun during summer. Consistent exposure to the sun mainly causes basal cell skin cancer or squamous cell skin cancer while severe sunburns before the age of 18 can lead to melanoma skin cancer later in your life.

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Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Saturday, September 19th, 2009

Lung Cancer is a very serious disease and one should know how to get it properly diagnosed.

  1. A comprehensive physical examination including a sputum sample is the first test that should be taken in lung cancer diagnosis.
  2. If no definite diagnosis is derived from the above test then other tests like x-ray, MRI scan, CAT scan, needle biopsy, bone scan and bronchoscopy should be taken.
  3. Lately, a new technology called CT/PET fusion imaging is being used, which combines technology from the CT scan and PET scan (positive emission tomography) to diagnose lung cancer.
  4. Further, lung cancer diagnosis can be done through mediastinoscopy, which involves a surgical inspection of the mediastinum.
  5. And lastly, blood tests to find any abnormalities which can be related to lung cancer can also be performed.

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Skin Cancer From The Sun – Sun Exposure, Sun Damage, Sunburn

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

Skin cancer from the sun- sun exposure, sun damage and sunburn are all caused by the harmful Ultraviolet (UV) rays that come from the sun. Most skin changes considered a normal part of ageing are caused by the sun. Over a period of time the ultraviolet (UV) light produced by the sun damages elastin (fibers in our skin).  When these breakdown our skin begins to sag, stretch and lose the ability to get back in place after stretching. Sun damage also makes our skin bruise and tear more easily and it also makes our skin take longer to heal.

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