Sun exposure, onset of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCS) and photoprotection: what's new?
Keywords:
Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinomas, actinik keratoses, nonmelanoma skin cancers, photoprotection, sun exposureAbstract
Introduction: NonMelanoma Skin Cancers (NMSCs) are the most common types of skin cancers and are the most frequently diagnosed worldwide. Sun exposure is considered the major risk factor for the onset of skin cancers, particularly for NMSCs. The head and neck area appears to be the one most affected by skin tumors related to sun exposure. There are two main subtypes of NMSCs: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). Among the most frequent lesions of the head and neck area, there are also Actinic Keratoses (AKs), considered precancerous lesions. Aims: The purpose of this article is to highlight what’s new in the field of photoprotection and reiterate the importance of protecting our skin from the potential risks of incorrect exposure to UV rays. Results: The frequency of AKs increases with age and with the cumulative dose of lifetime sunlight. Patients with multiple AKs are at higher risk of developing NonMelanoma Skin Cancers. Conclusion: The most effective tool in preventing the onset of these types of cancers persists being adequate photoprotection, both topical and systemic.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Antonella Tammaro, Ilaria Demofonte, Pietro Pasquale Cozza, Ganiyat Adenike Adebanjo , Gabriella De Marco, Fabiola Luzi, Antonino Trischitta, Giovanni Pellacani
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