An age-dependent interaction between sex and geographical UV index in melanoma risk

Publication date: Available online 2 December 2017
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
Author(s): Feng Liu-Smith, Argyrios Ziogas
BackgroundUV exposure may not equally impact melanoma development in different sexes and ages. Whether and how these factors interact with each other in melanoma risk is unknown.ObjectiveThis study attempts to estimate interactions among UVI, sex and age in melanoma risk.MethodsMelanoma incidence data was collected from 42 cancer registries. Geographical UV index (UVI) was collected from local satellite stations. Negative binomial regression models were used to estimate the impact of each risk factor and their interactions.ResultsSex, UVI and age, as well as interactions between any two of these factors were significantly associated with melanoma risk. In younger age groups, the female sex is an independent risk factor for melanoma that is not impacted by ambient UV exposure. In older age groups, however, the female sex interacts with UV exposure as a risk factor, exhibiting a protective effect. The switching age category is 45-49, which correlates with dramatic hormonal changes.Limitationsthe interaction between sex and UVI is measured at an ecological level.ConclusionThe interaction between sex and UVI is age-dependent. The female sex is an independent risk factor for early onset melanoma, but the female sex also protects against UV-associated melanoma in older age groups.

Teaser

UV exposure may differentially impact risk of melanoma by sex and age group.The female sex plays a significant and independent role in early onset melanoma.More effective preventive strategies can be developed based on the understanding of sex- and age-specific melanoma causes.