Causes & Risk Factors Of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Long-Term Exposure To Chemicals

In some individuals, occupation-related long-term exposure to certain chemicals has caused them to develop squamous cell carcinoma. Certain chemicals can cause damage in the DNA of an individual's skin cells when it comes in contact with the skin. The longer someone is exposed to the substance, the greater the chance is for it to damage the portion of cellular DNA responsible for cell growth and division. When a mutation occurs in the growth and division part of the skin cell's DNA, malignancy is likely to develop. Certain occupations can cause an individual to be exposed to these substances while they are at the workplace.

Before it was discovered that certain substances could cause cancer, personal protective equipment was not a requirement. Individuals exposed to arsenic, mineral oils, herbicides, seed treatments, grease, dry cleaning agents, pitch, motor oil, or paraffin regularly can consequently develop squamous cell carcinoma. In addition, individuals exposed to coal tars, insecticides, fungicides, petroleum products, fiberglass dust, soot, creosote, and shale oils on a regular basis may also develop squamous cell carcinoma as a result.