Solar radiation induced skin cancer and DNA photoproducts in humans.

Abstract

Solar radiation is a ubiquitous environmental carcinogen and the major cause of skin cancer in caucasians (Scotto et al., 1981; Urbach, 1984). Experimental studies indicate that the ultraviolet-B (W-B, 290-320 nm) portion of the solar spectrum is primarily responsible for the carcinogenic properties of sunlight (Forbes et al., 1989). This waveband encompasses the short-wavelength end of the solar spectrum that reaches the earth’s surface.