Environmental and Occupational Exposures (UV Exposure, Radon, Radiation)
Cancer risk is affected by a number of things in our environment, including ultraviolet light, radiation, radon and occupational exposures.
Sun (UVA and UVB rays) exposure can predispose to all types of skin cancers (melanoma, basal cell and squamous cell cancers). Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, but being "sun smart" can reduce your risk.
Many people turn to tanning booths to get a quick tan, but this practice has led to an epidemic of skin cancer in young people. Get the facts!
Brown skinned individuals, including black, Asian, Latino and Native Americans, often have a false sense of security when it comes to skin cancer risk. While it is true that darker skinned individuals have a lower risk of skin cancer, they are not immune.
Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, either by natural sunlight or tanning beds, can lead to skin cancer. Learn about sun safety and checking your skin to detect problems early.
Most people are aware that smoking is the number one cause of lung cancer. However, you may not know that the second leading cause of lung cancer — radon - may be lurking, undetected, in your basement.
"Asbestos" refers to a group of minerals that are made up of thin fibers. Asbestos fibers remain in the lungs for a long time, causing inflammation, which can develop into cancer.
There has been much talk in the media about the risk of developing cancer due to radiation exposure from radiology tests. While there have not been studies following people over time to assess for cancer risk, there are studies on the amount of radiation received in these tests.
Certain occupational exposures are known to increase cancer risk. These include hydrocarbons, heavy metals, mustard gas and chemicals used in leather, rubber and woodworking industries.
This article provides an overview of increased risk factors for cancer diagnosis in veterans as well as types of exposure and cancers associated with this exposure. Information regarding accessing health care and disability support services through the Veterans Administration (VA) is also provided.
Information for people in professions that may be at increased risk for cancer due to occupational radiation exposure, including medical radiologic technicians, aircrews, radium dial luminisers, underground hard-rock miners, Chernobyl clean-up workers, nuclear weapons test participants, and nuclear industry workers.
Information on exposure to radiation from an accident or atomic bomb.
