title: Running behind a tourist: leisure-related skin cancer prophylaxis.
abstract: The most important risk factor in the development of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Cumulative lifetime UV radiation exposure has been shown to be most important in the pathogenesis of squamous cell carcinoma, whereas intermittent high-dose UV radiation exposure in childhood and adolescence may be more important in the aetiology of basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous malignant melanoma. Using established methodology and best available estimates on UV-related mortality and morbidity, it has been estimated that annually around 1·5 million disability-adjusted life years are lost through excessive exposure to UV radiation. Skin cancer is a significant health problem and its burden is such that it causes the health system more to treat than any other forms of cancer. Prevention is the key action in managing skin cancer at a population level. Investment in prevention programmes such as SunSmart encourages protective behaviours that will reduce the human and financial costs of skin cancer.
authors.affiliation: Skin and Cancer Foundation, 80 Drummond Street, Carlton, Vic. 3053, Australia.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Tan
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Sinclair
authors.forename: P
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Foley
mesh_terms: D005135:Eye Protective Devices; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D007899:Leisure Activities; D009381:Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011481:Protective Clothing; D012572:School Health Services; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013177:Sports; D055108:Sunbathing; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014808:Vitamin D Deficiency / Q000517:prevention & control
chemical_list: D013473:Sunscreening Agents