UV exposure and keratinocyte carcinoma in darker-skinned people depend on type of UV exposure: JAMA

USA: A recent study in JAMA Dermatology has found that in people with skin of color, the association between UV exposure and keratinocyte carcinoma (KC) may be dependent on the type of UV exposure. This includes a positive association with UV exposure via the sun but no association with phototherapy. 

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) is an important modifiable risk factor for KC in fair-skinned non-Hispanic White populations; however their less certain evidence for this relationship in those with darker skin. To fill this knowledge gap, Elysha Kolitz, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, and colleagues aimed to assess and synthesize the published data concerning the association between UV exposure and the risk of KC in people with skin of color.

For this purpose, the researchers searched the online database from database origin through January 2022. It included studies with UV exposure as a risk factor for KC in individuals with skin of color, defined as any race other than non-Hispanic White, Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI, or tanning ability of rarely or never burns. Measures of exposure included the UV index, irradiance, latitude, history of phototherapy, history of sunburn, or occupational exposure. Evidence quality was assessed using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine guidelines.