Severe Sunburn as the Overwhelming Risk Factor for 3 Common Skin Cancers: New Prevention Strategy
Journal Title: Journal of Dermatology Research - Year 2021, Vol 2, Issue 3
Abstract
Re-analysis of published data from two large prospective cohort studies by Wu et al provides hitherto most unequivocal evidence showing Severe Sunburn (SS) as an overwhelming risk factor (> 90%) for all incidences of melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). Low incidence rates such as 0.77% for melanoma, 1.3% for SCC and 16% for BCC in women with 1-5 SSs reveal extremely efficient repair mechanisms of body to counter DNA damages caused by SS. A new SS prerequisite theory is proposed for skin cancer formation. Since use of sunscreen during intense intermittent sun exposure can cause unintended SS, a false security phenomenon, sunscreen is postulated as a major risk factor for causing exponential increases of all 3 skin cancers in recent decades. Because chronic exposure to non-burning sunlight is protective against melanoma and can enhance immunity, this protective effect is expected to occur also with less serious BCC and SCC. Therefore, regular exposure to non-burning sunlight may serve as a new strategy for skin cancer prevention and general health promotion. It is theorized that in addition to immunity enhancement, regular exposure to non-burning sunlight can result in skin tanning that will protect against sunburn and thereby protect against skin cancer. The role of erythema, a mild sunburn, in cancer development appears relatively limited due to our body’s extremely efficient repair mechanisms. Since skin aging in ordinary people is predominantly caused by the intrinsic factor, and SS is predominantly caused by intense ultraviolet (UV) B rays, the need of using broad-spectrum sunscreens or organic sunscreen ingredients for protection against UVA may need to be re-considered. Based on an earlier modeling analysis, a sunscreen with an SPF of about 8 and 2 to 6 for white and non-white populations, respectively, may be adequate. Also, use of non-absorbable, non-degradable mineral sunscreens should be considered as first choices. Information on UV Index, non-cumulative UV damage and SPF concepts should be widely promoted.
Authors and Affiliations
Win L Chiou
Keywords
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- EP ID EP699073
- DOI http://dx.doi.org/10.46889/JDR.2021.2305
- Views 89
- Downloads 0
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