Genetic Factors and UV-Susceptibility in Skin Cancer
Author Information
Author(s): Marleen M. Welsh, Margaret R. Karagas, Jacquelyn K. Kuriger, Andres Houseman, Steven K. Spencer, Ann E. Perry, Heather H. Nelson
Primary Institution: Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
Hypothesis
Does genetic variation in immune-related genes influence the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) associated with UV exposure?
Conclusion
The study found that certain genetic variants, particularly in the IL10 gene, are associated with increased risk of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), especially in women.
Supporting Evidence
- IL10 haplotypes were associated with increased risk of both BCC and SCC.
- The association with SCC was of borderline significance after correction for multiple comparisons.
- Women with two IL10 GC haplotypes had significantly higher odds ratios for both BCC and SCC.
- Skin type and lifetime number of severe sunburns were significant risk factors identified in the study.
Takeaway
Some people have genes that make them more likely to get skin cancer from the sun, and this is especially true for women.
Methodology
The study analyzed genetic variants in 10 immune-related genes in a population-based sample of newly diagnosed skin cancer patients and controls.
Potential Biases
Potential recall bias in self-reported sun exposure and missing genetic information for some participants.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported sun exposure data, which may be subject to recall bias.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 852 controls, 931 with basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and 710 with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), with a higher proportion of men than women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.005 for BCC trend
Confidence Interval
BCC: 95% CI 1.1–1.9; SCC: 95% CI 1.0–1.9
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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