Role of dietary factors in the development of basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer of the skin.

Abstract

The role of dietary factors in the development of skin cancer has been investigated for many years; however, the results of epidemiologic studies have not been systematically reviewed. This article reviews human studies of basal cell cancer (BCC) and squamous cell cancer (SCC) and includes all studies identified in the published scientific literature investigating dietary exposure to fats, retinol, carotenoids, vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium. A total of 26 studies were critically reviewed according to study design and quality of the epidemiologic evidence. Overall, the evidence suggests a positive relationship between fat intake and BCC and SCC, an inconsistent association for retinol, and little relation between beta-carotene and BCC or SCC development. There is insufficient evidence on which to make a judgment about an association of other carotenoids with skin cancer. The evidence for associations between vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium and both BCC and SCC is weak. Many of the existing studies contain limitations, however, and further well-designed and implemented studies are required to clarify the role of diet in skin cancer. Additionally, the role of other dietary factors, such as flavonoids and other polyphenols, which have been implicated in skin cancer development in animal models, needs to be investigated.

• Authors: Sarah A McNaughton, Geoffrey C Marks, Adele C Green
• Journal: Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev) Vol. 14 Issue 7 Pg. 1596-607 (Jul 2005) ISSN: 1055-9965 [Print] United States
• PMID: 16030089 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)

Chemical References

• Dietary Fats
• Vitamins

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Carcinoma, Basal Cell (etiology, prevention & control)
• Carcinoma, Squamous Cell (etiology, prevention & control)
• Case-Control Studies
• Diet
• Dietary Fats (adverse effects, blood, therapeutic use)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Skin Neoplasms (etiology, prevention & control)
• Vitamins (adverse effects, blood, therapeutic use)