In a study to assess the risk of melanoma in relation to its tumour site and latitude, it was shown that risk of melanoma at different body sites is associated with different amounts and patterns of sun exposure. Recreational sun exposure and sunburn are strong predictors of melanoma at all latitudes, whereas measures of occupational and total sun exposure appear to predict melanoma predominately at low latitudes.
They performed a pooled analysis of 15 case–control studies (5700 melanoma cases and 7216 controls), correlating patterns of sun exposure, sunburn and solar keratoses (three studies) with melanoma risk. Pooled odds ratios (pORs) and 95% Bayesian confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using Bayesian unconditional polytomous logistic random-coefficients models.
The Followings Were The Findings From Study:
- Recreational sun exposure was a risk factor for melanoma on the trunk and limbs, but not head and neck, across latitudes.
- Occupational sun exposure was associated with risk of melanoma on the head and neck at low latitudes.
- Total sun exposure was associated with increased risk of melanoma on the limbs at low latitudes, but not at other body sites or other latitudes.
- pORs for sunburn in childhood were 1.5, 1.5, and 1.4 for melanoma on the trunk, limbs, and head and neck, respectively, showing little variation across latitudes.
- Presence of head and neck solar keratoses was associated with increased risk of melanoma on the head and neck and limbs.
As a conclusion study showed that Melanoma risk at different body sites is associated with different amounts and patterns of sun exposure. Recreational sun exposure and sunburn are strong predictors of melanoma at all latitudes, whereas measures of occupational and total sun exposure appear to predict melanoma predominately at low latitudes.
Adapted from materials provided by: International Journal of Epidemiology
I am very strict when it comes to applying sunscreen. People have to understand the importance of wearing sunscreen and protecting themselves against harmful UV Rays. I’ve seen too many people not pay attention to proper sun protection and regret it. Staying informed is so important. Our book Women’s Survival Guide talks about sun protection, we felt it was so important to cover this topic and try to help the many women that aren’t properly protecting their skin and their health.
Great article. Isn’t it interesting though how some people who have been outdoors in the sun for years never have a problem and others not so lucky.
Yea. Tanning under the direct UV rays is very dangerous.
This is quite an informative posting on the risk of melanoma from the amount and nature of sun exposure. I always ensure applying a good sun-block before stepping out in the sun. 🙁