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SUMMARY
Exposure of the skin to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation has both risks and benefits for human health. Absorption of UV-B radiation by DNA results in mutations that underlie the development of skin cancers, as is apparent from genetic studies showing high occurrence of UV signature mutations within these tumors. UV-B radiation is also absorbed by 7-dehydrocholesterol to initiate vitamin D synthesis. In experimental studies vitamin D metabolites enhance apoptosis of malignant cells, inhibit angiogenesis and proliferation and increase differentiation, potentially reducing skin cancer development and improving prognosis after diagnosis. There are some supporting human data. We review the links between sun exposure, vitamin D and skin cancers.
Financial competing interests disclosure
The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.