Sense in the sun.

Abstract

Sunlight causes more cancers in man than does any other known carcinogen. Studies in this country more than 20 years ago implicating ultra-violet light as a factor in the aetiology of malignant melanoma are being ratified by epidemiologic studies in the United States. In the US, the death rate from melanoma has doubled in the last 15 years. Australian cancer registries have shown this to be so (from recorded deaths in capital city registries) for at least two decades. Figures for prevalence and incidence are not available for the non-melanoma epidermal cancers. Routine application of effective topical sunscreens could feasibly reduce the incidence of skin cancers and other skin disorders associated with chronic insolation. Oral photoprotectants are in their infancy, but show promise.