Skin canceris a public health problem, particularly in sunnier areas of the world.
In the United States, the rate of nonmelanoma skin cancer has been on the rise.
Who Gets Skin Cancer?
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One large meta-analysis showed the risk may be as high as 37%.
Medications used to treat IBD may also contribute to increased skin cancer risk.
Irritable bowel disease can cause serious complications in the intestines and other parts of the body.
Talk to yourgastroenterologistabout your overall risk.
Adermatologistmay also have recommendations to limit sun exposure and determine your individual risk.
How Often Should I Get Checked?
Ways to limit your sun exposure include:
Do I Need Sun for Vitamin D?
In addition, people with IBD may have lower blood levels of vitamin D compared to those without IBD.
Your healthcare provider can advise you on how much vitamin D you need each day.
Tanning Beds
Indoor tanning is associated with all types of skin cancersmelanoma and nonmelanoma.
Summary
People with IBD have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
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