Skin cancer risk following sunburns

Severe sunburns could increase the risk of squamous cell carcinoma.

In a meta-analysis published in JAMA Dermatology, investigators examined the sunburn history and subsequent risk of squamous cell carcinoma among more than 300,000 individuals who participated in 17 studies.

The investigators found that individuals with a history of painful, blistering and/or severe sunburns had a 38% increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma. The frequency of severe sunburns was positively correlated with cancer risk — with higher frequencies of severe sunburns, particularly during childhood, correlating with the greatest increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma.

The findings underlined the need for sun-protective measures when venturing outdoors in order to minimize the risk of skin cancer.

Read more: JAMA Dermatology

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