Sunscreens Prevent Major Skin Cancers, Protect Key Gene from Damage

A new study shows that sunscreens not only protect against common skin cancers, but also guard a key gene associated with cancer protection.

The study, conducted by researchers at the Queensland Institute of technology, found that  sunscreens provide 100 percent protection against three major kinds of cancers: BCC (basal cell carcinoma); SCC (squamous cell carcinoma); and malignant melanoma. Researchers also found that sunscreens shield the p53 gene, which is known to play an important role in cancer prevention.

For the study, researchers analyzed how sunscreen affected skin- both with and without sunscreen. They found that when properly applied, sunscreen reduced damage induced by UV exposure. Around 57 people took part in the study and had their biopsies taken before and after sun exposure and with or without sunscreen.

"Firstly we took small skin biopsies of people's unexposed skin. We then exposed two skin sites to a mild burning dose of UV light, one site was applied with sunscreen and the other was not. We again took biopsies of both sites," said Dr Elke Hacker from QUT's AusSun Research Lab and lead author of the study, according to a news release

Researchers found that there were no DNA changes in the skin or modifications in p53 gene some 24 hours after sun- exposure in skin samples with sunscreen.

The p53 gene

Researchers call the P53 gene a superhero gene as it repairs DNA damage and prevents cancer development. The gene's role in cancer protection has been widely studied since its discovery in 1979.

Although, the gene protects skin from being damaged, prolonged sun-exposure can block the gene activity.

The study is published in the journal Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research.

The National Cancer Institute, too, supports the idea that sunscreens can protect against skin cancers. The agency recommends people to avoid long-term sun-exposure, particularly at noon.