Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
12:37
Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
Reduced melanoma after regular sunscreen use: randomized trial follow-up
Adèle C Green1, Gail M Williams, Valerie Logan
1Queensland Institute of Medical Research, PO Royal Brisbane Hospital, Queensland 4029, Australia. adele.green@qimr.edu.au
Summary
Regular sunscreen use significantly reduces melanoma risk. This study found daily sunscreen application halved the occurrence of melanoma compared to discretionary use, suggesting melanoma prevention is possible.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma prevention is linked to regular sunscreen use.
- The impact of sunscreen on melanoma risk remains a subject of debate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term effect of regular sunscreen application on the risk of developing cutaneous melanoma.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 1,621 participants in Queensland, Australia, aged 25-75.
- Participants were assigned to daily or discretionary sunscreen use on head and arms from 1992 to 1996.
- Melanoma occurrence was tracked until 2006 via questionnaires and pathology records.
Main Results:
- Daily sunscreen use was associated with a 50% reduction in melanoma rates (Hazard Ratio [HR], 0.50; P = .051).
- A substantial reduction was observed for invasive melanomas (HR, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.08 to 0.97).
- No significant reduction was found for preinvasive melanomas (HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.29 to 1.81).
Conclusions:
- Regular, long-term sunscreen application may be an effective strategy for preventing melanoma in adults.
- Findings support the role of sunscreen in reducing melanoma incidence.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Skin 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...
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
01:19Pigmentation
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...
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...
01:14Changes 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...
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...