Pediatria pre prax 3/2014

What is new in photoprotection?

Over exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in childhood and adolescence increases the risk of malignant melanoma (MM) as well as non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) by chronic UV exposure, even at younger age, their incidence increasing worldwide. The most important external factor responsible for development of these diseases is UV radiation – intensity, duration of exposure and sunburn. Age, heredity, individual sensitivity to UV radiation (phototype I and II), inability to repair sun-damaged cells, impaired control of the growth and differentiation of keratinocytes, melanocytes and immunological disorders are important in pathogenesis of MM and NMSC. Photoprotection in childhood is important especially in the view of long-term prevention. This article is an update on photoprotection in children as well as in adults.

Keywords: UV radiation, photoprotection, prevention, childhood.