Planet of Beauty manipulatively about the link between sunscreen use and skin cancer

A recent claim circulating online suggests that frequent use of sunscreen increases the risk of developing melanoma. However, this assertion has been widely refuted by scientific experts and fact-checking organizations. According to data from the National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ), most individuals achieve 80% of their lifetime sun exposure by age 18. This statistic underscores the early and extensive nature of human exposure to sunlight throughout life. On June 29, the Slovenian website Planet lepote published an article titled “Breakthrough Analysis: Do Sunscreens Increase the Risk of Skin Cancer?” The piece cited an analysis conducted by the UK Biobank, which included over 470,000 participants. It claimed that frequent sunscreen users had significantly increased risks of developing melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. These findings were later corroborated by a clinical study published in the peer-reviewed journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention on November 1, 2023. This study was based on data from the UK Biobank but did not originate directly from the biobank itself. The researchers analyzed connections between skin cancers and both genetic and environmental factors. They found that gender, skin color (and hair color), methods of sun exposure, and the use of sun protection were most strongly associated with the occurrence of all four types of skin cancer examined, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma in situ, and invasive melanoma. The findings align with results from earlier studies, which have consistently shown that DNA damage caused by UV radiation is a primary cause of most skin cancers. The authors of the study noted that while sunscreen usage might seem protective, there could be alternative explanations for the observed correlation. One possibility is that individuals who frequently use sunscreen tend to spend more time in the sun, thereby increasing their overall UV exposure. Another explanation is that some users may apply sunscreen inadequately or not reapply it regularly throughout the day. Additionally, they suggested that some individuals might increase their sunscreen use after being diagnosed with skin cancer, potentially leading to a misinterpretation of causality. The study’s conclusions were not accompanied by the usual cautionary statements typically found in such research. For instance, the authors did not emphasize the importance of proper and regular sunscreen application or the need to reduce UV exposure, especially among fair-skinned individuals. In contrast, oncologists at a dermatological institute clarified that current scientific evidence does not support the idea that correct use of properly tested and regulated sunscreens increases the risk of skin cancer. According to these specialists, the development of malignant melanoma is influenced by multiple factors. Genetic predisposition plays a key role, particularly among individuals with light skin and numerous pigmented birthmarks. Environmental exposure is another critical factor, those living near the equator or in regions with reduced ozone layer protection are more vulnerable. Behavioral habits, such as frequent sunburns, also contribute to the risk. Social and economic status can act as an indirect influence, as higher-status individuals often adopt modern risky behaviors, including occasional intense sun exposure during activities like skiing in high-altitude resorts or extended vacations near the equator. Fact-checking organizations such as Snopes and Full Fact have also evaluated the claims made by Planet lepote. Both have concluded that the original assertion lacks sufficient scientific backing and is misleading. Their analyses highlight the importance of distinguishing between correlation and causation in health-related studies. While the study raises interesting questions, it does not provide conclusive evidence that sunscreen use leads to an increased risk of skin cancer. Instead, it reinforces the need for continued public education on safe sun practices and the importance of using sunscreen correctly.