Cause 4: Age and Gender
As we age, our skin accumulates exposure to various environmental factors, most notably UV radiation. Our skin’s resilience and capacity to repair damage diminish over time. Consequently, older adults often manifest the cumulative effects of years of sun exposure, making them more prone to basal-cell carcinoma.
Historically, men have shown a higher likelihood of developing BCC compared to women. This might stem from occupational exposures, where men, particularly in outdoor professions, accumulate more sun exposure over their lifetime. However, recent trends indicate an increasing incidence in younger women, potentially due to sunbathing and tanning bed habits.
While the risk of BCC indeed rises with age, it’s not strictly an “older person’s disease”. With the popularity of sunbathing and tanning beds among the younger generation, we’re seeing an uptick in BCC cases in people as young as in their 20s and 30s.
Some researchers are investigating the role hormones might play in BCC risk, especially given the gender disparities in its incidence. Testosterone, for example, might enhance the carcinogenic effect of UV rays. However, the connection between hormones and BCC remains an area of ongoing research.
To conclude, age and gender play significant roles in BCC risk, intertwined with behavioral and potentially hormonal factors. Awareness and preventive measures across all ages can make a difference. (4)
