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08:17
Generation of a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Model in Mice by Repeated Ozone Exposure
Published on: August 25, 2017
Skin effects of air pollution
1Department of Dermatology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, NY 14642, USA.
Summary
Skin cancer is linked to atmospheric pollution and UVB exposure. The skin absorbs environmental pollutants, highlighting the importance of understanding percutaneous absorption in toxicology.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- The skin serves as a barrier but also allows penetration of external substances.
- Skin cancer, including melanoma, poses a significant public health concern, with incidence linked to UV radiation.
- Atmospheric pollution, particularly ozone depletion, increases UVB exposure and predicted skin cancer rates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the skin's role as a target organ for pollution.
- To emphasize the link between atmospheric pollution, UVB irradiation, and skin cancer risk.
- To underscore the significance of percutaneous absorption of environmental pollutants.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data on skin cancer incidence and mortality.
- Analysis of the relationship between ozone depletion, UVB irradiance, and skin cancer predictions.
- Discussion of toxicological implications of skin absorption for environmental pollutants.
Main Results:
- Skin cancer is strongly associated with ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure.
- A 1% decrease in ozone is predicted to increase UVB irradiance by 2%, leading to a 2% rise in skin cancer.
- Percutaneous absorption of pollutants like chloroform can be as significant as respiratory uptake.
Conclusions:
- Atmospheric pollution, especially ozone-depleting chemicals, is a major concern for dermatologists due to increased skin cancer risk.
- The skin's role in absorbing environmental pollutants necessitates consideration in toxicological assessments.
- Understanding skin absorption is crucial for evaluating overall exposure to environmental toxins.
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