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Arch Dermatol. 2000;136:245-246.

	Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings.

NONMELANOMA SKIN cancers (NMSCs) are the most commonly occurring malignant neoplasms in the United States, and recent evidence indicates that their incidence is increasing rapidly.^1-2 This dramatic increase in rates has occurred despite a growing understanding of the mechanisms involved in the development of these cancers. Several important causal factors for NMSC are known: UV radiation is dominant, and ionizing radiation and arsenic exposure also may contribute. Progress has also been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms of UV carcinogenesis.^3-4

Despite this knowledge, there is no proven strategy for preventing skin cancer of any type. Sunscreen use may modestly reduce the risk of squamous cell carcinoma,⁵ but some evidence indicates that sunscreens may actually encourage sun exposure (presumably by preventing sunburn).⁶ Avoidance of sun exposure altogether, or use of protective clothing, logically should help prevent NMSC, but heavy exposure to the sun in the first few decades of life may . . . [Full Text of this Article]

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Uta M. Frieling, Debra A. Schaumberg, Thomas S. Kupper, Jorg Muntwyler, and Charles H. Hennekens
Arch Dermatol. 2000;136(2):179-184.
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