J Korean Med Assoc.  2018 Nov;61(11):644-648. 10.5124/jkma.2018.61.11.644.

Pathogenesis and prevention of skin cancer

• Oh BH

• KMID: 2426473
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2018.61.11.644

Abstract

The incidence of skin cancer has continuously increased in Korea, probably due to sun exposure and increases in the aging population. Ultraviolet light, a well-known risk factor for skin cancer, can cause DNA damage, mutation, and immune suppression, followed by abnormal proliferation. To prevent photocarcinogenesis, the appropriate use of sunscreen should be emphasized. Using broad-spectrum sunscreens with sun protection factor values of 15 or higher and frequent reapplication are recommended. Controversy exists about whether vitamin D synthesis is inhibited by the use of sunscreen. However, considering that skin cancer most commonly develops on the head and neck area, applying it to the face and neck is reasonable in terms of balancing the risk-benefit ratio.

Keyword

Skin neoplasms; Ultraviolet rays; Sunscreening agents; Vitamin D

MeSH Terms

Aging
DNA Damage
Head
Incidence
Korea
Neck
Risk Factors
Skin Neoplasms*
Skin*
Solar System
Sun Protection Factor
Sunscreening Agents
Ultraviolet Rays
Vitamin D
Sunscreening Agents
Vitamin D

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