Last Updated on May 16, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Skin cancers, often found on sun-exposed areas like the head and neck, can have a significant impact on patient well-being and healthcare costs. Treatment options include surgery, cryotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation. Prevention through sun safety practices, such as using sunscreen, is crucial in reducing the risk of skin cancer. In this article, we will discuss skin cancer and whether diet has role in preventing skin cancer.
What is skin cancer?
In skin cancer, there is abnormal growth of skin cells. It primarily occurs on areas of the skin exposed to sunlight. Skin cancer, including nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and melanoma, is the most common type of cancer. The incidence of both NMSC and melanoma has been increasing in recent decades. Damage from free radicals, especially from UV radiation, can cause skin cancer, including nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). Free radicals can negatively affect DNA, proteins, and lipids, resulting in oxidative stress and the potential development of tumours.
Is it possible for diet to play a role in the prevention of skin cancer?
While there is no conclusive evidence that diet alone can prevent skin cancer, incorporating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and nuts may have potential benefits in terms of promoting early prognosis against skin cancer.
Antioxidant
Skin cancer, including nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), can be a result of damage from free radicals, particularly from UV radiation. Free radicals can harm DNA, proteins, and lipids in the body, leading to oxidative stress and potential tumorigenesis. Antioxidants (AOs) help prevent these oxidative reactions and protect against DNA and cellular damage. The body has its own innate AOs, but external sources of AOs, such as dietary supplements, have been studied for their potential to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Animal studies have shown promising results, with certain antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, and selenium demonstrating protective effects against skin cancer. However, human studies have provided conflicting results, and more research is needed to fully understand the role of antioxidants in skin cancer prevention.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, found in fruits and vegetables, is an important nutrient for the body. It plays a role in the synthesis of collagen, which is necessary for the structure and stability of the skin. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, protecting against the harmful effects of UV radiation and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Studies have shown that vitamin C, along with vitamin E, can counteract the damaging effects of UVB radiation and prevent cell death. Additionally, vitamin C supports DNA repair processes, promoting the restoration of damaged DNA.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a group of closely related molecules that are found in foods like soybeans and wheat germ. The most biologically active form is D-alpha tocopherol. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that protects against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E can prevent the peroxidation of lipids in cell membranes. Studies have shown that vitamin E supplementation can reduce skin damage caused by UVB radiation and offer protection against UVA-induced damage.
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are plant compounds present in fruits and vegetables that give them vibrant colours. The most commonly consumed carotenoid is beta-carotene. In laboratory and animal studies, carotenoids have shown potential in impacting carcinogenesis through various mechanisms. They can be converted into retinoids, which have demonstrated anti-cancer effects in animal models. Carotenoids also possess antioxidant properties, helping to neutralise harmful free radicals and protect against oxidative damage. Studies have shown that carotenoids can protect against lipid peroxidation, a process linked to cancer development. Beta-carotene, in particular, has been found to suppress lipid peroxidation in animal studies.
Selenium
Selenium, found in food sources like plants, meats, and fish, plays a vital role as selenoproteins, supporting the growth and viability of skin cells. In studies, selenium has shown anti-cancer effects by inducing programmed cell death in tumour-derived cell lines, reducing skin lesions, decreasing cell growth, and enhancing apoptosis in mouse models. Selenium also inhibits lipid peroxidation and boosts antioxidant enzyme levels.
Since the majority of studies conducted were on animals, it is advisable to consult both your oncologist and dietitian before making any changes to your diet.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
