Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
12:37

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model

Published on: September 7, 2013

Interventions for preventing non-melanoma skin cancers in high-risk groups

F Bath-Hextall1, J Leonardi-Bee, N Somchand

  • 1School of Nursing, University of Nottingham, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Room D83, Medical School, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK, NG7 2UH. fiona.bath-hextall@nottingham.ac.uk

The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|October 19, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Preventative treatments show some promise for reducing non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) in high-risk individuals. However, limited trial data and inconsistent results restrict definitive conclusions on NMSC prevention strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Dermatology
  • Oncology
  • Preventative Medicine

Background:

  • Certain populations face an elevated risk of developing common non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC).
  • Identifying effective NMSC prevention strategies is crucial for high-risk groups.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically evaluate interventions aimed at preventing NMSC in individuals identified as high-risk.
  • To synthesize evidence from randomized controlled trials on NMSC prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature search across multiple databases (Cochrane, MEDLINE, EMBASE) and trial registries up to March 2007.
  • Inclusion of randomized controlled trials involving adults and children at high risk for NMSC.
  • Independent study selection and quality assessment by two review authors.

Main Results:

  • T4N5 liposome lotion showed efficacy in reducing new basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) in xeroderma pigmentosum patients.
  • Acitretin significantly reduced NMSC risk in renal transplant recipients compared to placebo.
  • Evidence for retinol or isoretinoin in NMSC prevention was inconclusive; isotretinoin increased SCC risk and adverse events.
  • Selenium reduced other cancer risks but elevated NMSC risk; beta-carotene evidence was inconclusive.
  • A trend towards fewer NMSCs was observed with a reduced-fat diet.

Conclusions:

  • Some interventions may offer benefits for NMSC prevention in high-risk individuals.
  • Conclusions are limited by the small number of trials, often with single studies per intervention.
  • Inconsistent results across studies hinder definitive recommendations for NMSC prevention.

More Related Videos

Spatial and Temporal Control of Murine Melanoma Initiation from Mutant Melanocyte Stem Cells06:09

Spatial and Temporal Control of Murine Melanoma Initiation from Mutant Melanocyte Stem Cells

Published on: June 7, 2019

Related Concept Videos

Skin Cancer01:30

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that occurs when there is an abnormal growth of skin cells, usually triggered by damage to the DNA within the skin cells. It is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Cancer Prevention02:59

Cancer Prevention

Several factors can increase the risk of cancer in an individual. About 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating healthy, and following a modest cancer prevention diet. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that populations with vegetable and fruit-rich diets have reduced the incidence of cancer. On the other hand, populations who have a diet rich in animal fat, red meat, junk food, or high calories are predisposed to cancer.
Some...
Cancer Prevention02:59

Cancer Prevention

Several factors can increase the risk of cancer in an individual. About 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating healthy, and following a modest cancer prevention diet. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that populations with vegetable and fruit-rich diets have reduced the incidence of cancer. On the other hand, populations who have a diet rich in animal fat, red meat, junk food, or high calories are predisposed to cancer.
Some...
Preventive Healthcare Services01:30

Preventive Healthcare Services

Preventive healthcare services keep people healthy via frequent check-ups, screening, and counseling. They primarily aid in disease prevention rather than treating an acute or chronic illness. Preventive treatment also keeps individuals productive and energetic, allowing them to work well into their retirement years. Examples of preventive care services include:
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives01:14

Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives

The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders are relatively benign, but a few, including melanomas, can be fatal if untreated. A couple of the more noticeable disorders, albinism and vitiligo, affect the appearance of the skin and its accessory organs.
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Pigmentation01:19

Pigmentation

The color of the skin is influenced by a number of pigments, including melanin, carotene, and hemoglobin. Recall that melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes, which are found scattered throughout the stratum basale of the epidermis. The melanin is transferred to the keratinocytes via melanosomes.
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...