What might explain why the incidence of skin cancer is increasing ?

the thinning of the ozone layer

too much oxygen

more travel to the beach

1 answer

The increase in the incidence of skin cancer can be attributed to several factors, including:

  1. The thinning of the ozone layer: This is a significant factor because the ozone layer helps protect the Earth from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. A thinner ozone layer allows more UV rays to reach the surface, increasing the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.

  2. Increased sun exposure: More travel to the beach and outdoor activities can lead to increased sun exposure. People are often less vigilant about sun protection during vacations and outdoor sports, which can increase their risk of skin cancer over time.

  3. Tanning trends and practices: The popularity of tanning and the use of tanning beds can also contribute to increased skin cancer rates, as UV exposure from these sources can be significantly higher than from natural sunlight.

  4. Awareness and diagnosis: Increased awareness of skin cancer and better diagnostic techniques may also lead to higher reported incidences, as more cases are detected than in the past.

  5. Lifestyle choices: Factors such as diet, genetic predisposition, and other lifestyle choices can also play a role in the increase of skin cancer incidences.

Regarding the option "too much oxygen," it doesn't have a direct relation to the incidence of skin cancer.

Overall, the thinning of the ozone layer and increased sun exposure due to lifestyle choices—like more travel to the beach—are more relevant explanations for the rising incidence of skin cancer.