Environment and Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and is a major public health issue. The most common types of skin cancers, melanoma and non-melanoma are often seen in fair-skinned population in the world. The geographical distribution for these cancers is reflected mainly in countries with this population. Among the non-melanoma skin cancers, basal cell carcinomas (BCC) have the highest incidence followed by squamous cell carcinomas (SCC). The incidence of melanoma is much lower than non-melanoma skin cancers but the mortality is high. It is well known that chronic exposure to environmental agents can lead to the development of skin cancer. The most common cause for development of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from exposure to sunlight. This causes DNA damage and immunosuppression, which leads to the development of skin cancer. Other risk factors for skin cancer include environmental pollutants, chemical carcinogens, and exposure to carcinogenic chemicals in occupational settings. Some additional risk factors include consumption of drinking water with arsenic alone or along with other risk factors. Depletion of the ozone layer and rise in temperatures due to climate change have also contributed to an increase in the incidence of skin cancer.

The purpose of this Research Topic is to provide a better understanding of the environmental factors for skin cancer so strategies can be developed for its prevention. Experimental studies in in vivo models, review articles, and epidemiological studies as well are all welcome for publication.