Risk Factors
Elderly white-skinned individuals whose skin is exposed to excessive sunlight are at a risk for developing squamous cell cancer.
The following factors increase the risk for developing squamous cell cancer of the skin:
- Chronic exposure to sunlight: The ultraviolet rays of the sun damage the skin and predispose to the development of squamous cell cancer. This is especially true for people exposed to sunlight in the hours around noon and over prolonged durations.
- White skin: People with white skin especially those living near the tropics are at a higher risk for developing squamous cell cancer.
- Male gender: Men are twice at risk for developing squamous cell cancer compared to women.
- Chronic inflammation: Squamous cell cancer can occur at sites of chronic inflammation like sinus tracts, pre-existing scars, burns and vaccination points.
- Immunosuppression: People with low immunity such as those undergoing organ transplantation are at a high risk for developing squamous cell cancer.
- Radiation or Chemical Exposure: Exposure to radiation or chemical carcinogens like arsenicals and tar predispose an individual to developing the skin cancer.
- Viral infection: Infection with herpes viruses types HPV5 and HPV16 increases the chances for developing the cancer.
- Tobacco use: Current and previous tobacco users are at a high risk for developing squamous cell cancer.
