A UV-related risk analysis in ophthalmic malignancies: Increased UV exposure may cause ocular malignancies

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oncology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Ocular malignancies represent a significant global health concern.
• Understanding environmental risk factors is crucial for prevention and treatment strategies.
• Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is a known environmental exposure with potential links to various cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and the incidence and development of ocular malignancies.
• To analyze epidemiological data on ocular tumors in relation to UVR exposure.
• To clarify the role of UVR in different types of eye cancers.

Main Methods:

• Ocular malignancy data were obtained from the Global Cancer Observatory (GCO).
• Correlation analysis was performed using the global UV index and sunshine duration.
• A systematic literature search was conducted across Embase, Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases.

Main Results:

• The link between UVR and eyelid malignancies is well-established, with similar findings for conjunctival melanoma.
• The relationship between UVR and uveal melanoma remains controversial, though a potential impact on prognosis exists.
• UVR contributes to ocular surface squamous neoplasia by activating HPV infection.

Conclusions:

• UVR is a critical risk factor for ocular malignancies, though other factors also influence tumor incidence.
• A thorough understanding of UVR's role in ocular tumor pathogenesis can inform targeted immune regulation strategies for patients.