Studies of Melanoma Rates
Malignant melanoma has been found more frequently in sunscreen users compared to non-users in some studies. Other studies found fair skinned people used more suncreen and had more skin cancer, but did not address cause and effect. A meta-analysis of 9067 patients from 11 case–control studies found no association between sunscreen use and development of malignant melanoma. It was suggested that sunscreens block the natural warnings and adaptations mediated by UVB, but allow damage from UVA to go unchecked.
However, these claims could not be supported in three meta-analyses. (Huncharek and Kupelnick, 2000, Annals Epidemiol. vol. 10, p. 467.)
The only evidence suggesting a relationship between sunscreen and melanoma is correlational, and thus cannot be used to establish a causal relationship.
Even though it is rare, malignant melanoma is responsible for 75% of all skin cancer-related death cases, making it the most lethal form of skin cancer. Many scientists argue that the sun-avoiding health message does increase some forms of skin cancer.
There is a correlation between high UV exposure, especially during childhood, and the risk to develop melanoma, resulting in a WHO recommendation for persons under 18 to avoid sunbeds.
Read more about this topic: Potential Health Risks Of Sunscreen
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