Risk reduction for nonmelanoma skin cancer with childhood sunscreen use

Journal Article · Thu May 01 04:00:00 EDT 1986 · Arch. Dermatol.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1001/archderm.122.5.537· OSTI ID:5559365

Stern, R S; Weinstein, M C; Baker, S G

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the principle cause of basal and squamous cell carcinomas of the skin, which are the most frequent tumors occurring in white residents of the United States. Using a mathematical model based on epidemiologic data, we quantified the potential benefits of using a sunscreen with a sun protective factor of 15 and estimate that regular use of such a sunscreen during the first 18 years of life would reduce the lifetime incidence of these tumors by 78%. Additional benefits of sunscreen use during childhood include reduced risk of sunburn, retarding the pace of skin aging, and possible reduction in melanoma risk. We recommend that pediatricians encourage sunscreen use and sun avoidance as a regular part of pediatric preventive health care.

• Research Organization: Beth Israel Hospital, Boston, MA
• OSTI ID: 5559365
• Journal Information: Arch. Dermatol.; (United States), Journal Name: Arch. Dermatol.; (United States) Vol. 5; ISSN ARDEA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

560151* -- Radiation Effects on Animals-- Man
63 RADIATION, THERMAL, AND OTHER ENVIRON. POLLUTANT EFFECTS ON LIVING ORGS. AND BIOL. MAT.
AGE GROUPS
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
BIOLOGICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
BODY
CARCINOMAS
CHILDREN
DISEASES
DOSE-RESPONSE RELATIONSHIPS
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
MELANOMAS
NEOPLASMS
ORGANS
RADIATION EFFECTS
RADIATIONS
RADIOINDUCTION
RISK ASSESSMENT
SKIN
ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION