What causes skin cancer
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Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that skin cancer is primarily caused by sun exposure and UV radiation, with additional factors including organ transplants, AIDS, genetic syndromes, environmental pollutants, and work-related exposures.
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Causes of Skin Cancer: A Comprehensive Overview
Ultraviolet Radiation (UV) and Skin Cancer
UV Radiation as the Primary Cause
Ultraviolet radiation (UV) from sun exposure is the most significant cause of skin cancer. UV radiation causes DNA damage and genetic mutations, which can lead to the development of skin cancer . Chronic sun exposure is primarily linked to nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC), such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), while intense, intermittent sun exposure is more closely associated with melanoma.
Factors Influencing UV Exposure
Several environmental factors influence the amount of UV radiation reaching the earth's surface, including ozone depletion, elevation, latitude, altitude, and weather conditions . These factors can increase the risk of skin cancer by enhancing UV exposure.
Artificial UV Sources
Exposure to artificial UV radiation, such as tanning beds and lamps, also significantly increases the risk of skin cancer . These sources of UV radiation can cause similar DNA damage and mutations as natural sunlight.
Genetic and Immunological Factors
Genetic Susceptibility
Individuals with familial genetic syndromes are more susceptible to specific types of skin cancers. Genetic mutations can inactivate apoptosis, a process necessary to prevent the malignant transformation of healthy cells .
Immunosuppression
Immunosuppressed individuals, such as organ transplant recipients and AIDS patients, have a higher incidence of skin cancers. UV radiation can induce immunosuppression, further increasing the risk of skin cancer .
Environmental and Chemical Exposures
Ionizing Radiation and Chemical Carcinogens
Exposure to ionizing radiation, environmental pollutants, and chemical carcinogens has been associated with an increased risk of skin cancer. Work-related exposures to certain chemicals can also contribute to the development of skin cancer.
Viral Infections
Viral infections, such as those caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can lead to squamous cell carcinomas. This highlights the role of infectious agents in the etiology of skin cancer.
Lifestyle and Behavioral Factors
Aging and Skin Color
Aging and skin color are significant risk factors for skin cancer. Fair-skinned individuals are at a higher risk due to lower levels of melanin, which provides some protection against UV radiation .
Diet and Smoking
Diet and smoking have been identified as attributable risks for skin cancer. These lifestyle factors can influence the overall health of the skin and its susceptibility to cancer.
Other Contributing Factors
Chronic Injuries and Scars
Skin cancers can develop in areas of chronic injury, nonhealing wounds, and scars. This suggests that chronic inflammation and trauma may play a role in skin cancer pathogenesis .
Microbiota and Inflammation
Emerging evidence suggests that the human microbiota may contribute to skin cancer development. Microbial dysbiosis and inflammation are linked to skin cancer, indicating a complex interaction between the microbiota and UV-induced immunosuppression.
Conclusion
Skin cancer is a multifactorial disease with various contributing factors. Ultraviolet radiation remains the primary cause, but genetic susceptibility, immunosuppression, environmental exposures, lifestyle factors, and chronic injuries also play significant roles. Understanding these causative factors is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. Public education on the risks of UV exposure and the importance of early detection can help mitigate the growing incidence of skin cancer.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
6
Skin cancer: Etiology and management.
6
18 Citations
2016