M ELANOMA AND L UNG C ANCER Unit 5: Lifestyle Diseases

W HAT IS M ELANOMA ? A tumor of melanin-forming cells, typically a malignant tumor associated with skin cancer.

W HAT CAUSES IT ? The main cause of melanoma is too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaching the skin. UV rays from the sun and other sources (such as tanning booths) can damage skin cells; causing the cells to grow abnormally. Some people may have a hereditary defect that increases their risk of melanoma.

H OW CAN YOU PREVENT IT ? Seek shade: Play it safe in the shade whenever possible and avoid midday sun. UV rays are especially strong between 10 AM and 4 PM. Cover up: Make your own shade with a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved shirts and long pants such as blue jeans. Baseball caps and visors shade the face but leave the neck, lower face, and ears exposed. Wear sunglasses: Protect your eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses that have 99% or more UV radiation blocking. Learn not to burn! Just one blistering sunburn when you’re a child or teen more than doubles your risk of developing melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) later in life.

S KIN Q UIZ

W HAT IS L UNG C ANCER ? Carcinoma of the lungs; one of the most common forms of cancer.

W HAT C AUSES IT ? Smoking causes the majority of lung cancers — both in smokers and in people exposed to secondhand smoke. Doctors believe smoking causes lung cancer by damaging the cells that line the lungs. When you inhale cigarette smoke, which is full of cancer- causing substances (carcinogens); changes in the lung tissue begin almost immediately.

H OW CAN YOU PREVENT IT ? Don’t smoke or quit smoking. Avoid second hand smoke. Eat healthy.

T AKE SOME TIME TO THINK … Discuss these questions with your neighbor and be prepared to answer them aloud. What are some things you can change in your life to avoid melanoma and lung cancer? What can you do to help others avoid these lifestyle diseases?