3. HPV
A study published in the British Medical Journal discovered a connection between strains of HPV and the occurrence of squamous cell carcinomas – a common form of nonmelanoma skin cancer, that develops in the “squamous” cells that make up the middle and outer layer of the skin. The more strains of HPV a person carries, the greater their risk of developing the squamous cell cancer in their lifetime.
4. Tanning
Bump what you’ve heard, hitting the tanning bed – which exposes users to two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB – is bad news! In fact, science shows that it can lead to premature skin aging such as wrinkles, brown spots, and let’s not forget, skin cancer. Furthermore, research shows that people who use an indoor tanning bed before the age of 35 increase their risk of melanoma by up to 75 percent. If you ask us, that’s reason enough to stay clear of the popular trend.
5. Wine
Specifically, white wine has been linked to a 13 percent increased risk of melanoma, according to a study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. Meanwhile, an analysis of 16 studies (from 2014), published in the British Journal of Dermatology, found that turning up with more than one drink a day, is associated with a 20 percent increased risk of skin cancer. Researchers argue that the risk is due to the DNA-damaging enzyme acetaldehyde found in all alcoholic beverages but at higher levels in white wine.
Tip: Opt for red wine instead. Not only is your risk of developing melanoma lessened, but it’s loaded with heart-healthy benefits like antioxidants such as flavonoids which have been linked to regulating blood sugar, boosting memory, fighting the common cold and preventing cancer.
