FIGURE 32–14 Skin Cancer Early detection is important in treating skin cancer. Signs of skin cancer may include a sore that does not heal or a sudden change in a mole's appearance. You should also see a doctor if you notice a new mole that is larger than 6 mm, has irregular borders, or is an odd color.
dSkin Cancer Excessive exposure to the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight and artificial radiation from tanning beds can produce skin cancer, an abnormal growth of cells in the skin. Figure 32–14 shows examples of the three most common types of skin cancer, including melanoma, the most dangerous form. Over 60,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma every year in the United States, and as many as 8000 people die from it.
You can help protect yourself from this dangerous disease by avoiding tanning salons and wearing a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing whenever you plan to spend time outside. In addition, you should always use a sunscreen that protects against both UV-A rays and UV-B rays and that has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
In Your Notebook Summarize the steps you can take to protect your skin from sun damage.
Review List the functions of the integumentary system.
Classify What organs and tissues make up the integumentary system?
a. Review What structures are found in the epidermis? What structures are found in the dermis?
b. Apply Concepts Explain two ways that the skin can help remove excess heat from the body.
Review What are some ways to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer?
Sequence Explain the events that lead to acne.
Apply the Big idea
Compare and contrast the structure and function of the dermal tissue in plants discussed in Chapter 23 with the structures in human skin. Hint: You may wish to organize your ideas in a Venn diagram.