Cause 5: Radiation Exposure
When we talk about radiation and skin cancer, it’s not always about the sun. Therapeutic radiation, like the type used in treating conditions such as acne and ringworm in the past, has been linked to a heightened risk of BCC later in life.
The risk of BCC due to radiation exposure isn’t just about a one-off exposure. It’s a combination of the radiation’s intensity and the frequency of exposure. Individuals subjected to repeated, intense radiation treatments are at a notably higher risk.
Interestingly, BCC due to radiation exposure doesn’t manifest immediately. There’s often a significant lag, sometimes decades, between the radiation exposure and the appearance of cancerous lesions. This delay can make it challenging to draw direct connections, but patterns have emerged in multiple studies.
Fortunately, the medical community recognizes these risks. Current radiation treatments are far more targeted and precise, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Plus, older radiation therapies linked to BCC risks are largely obsolete now. In sum, while therapeutic radiation has its place in medicine, it’s essential to recognize and mitigate its risks. Modern advances have made treatments safer, but understanding history is vital. (5)
