Are military personnel at a more risk for skin cancers?

Dermatol Ther. 2020 Nov;33(6):e14340. doi: 10.1111/dth.14340. Epub 2020 Oct 6.

Abstract

NMSC is the most common cancer in countries with a largely fair skin phenotype population and moderate sun exposure. Assessing risk factors in the military personnel. Comparing the risk factors in this occupational group to the general population. 200 active-duty military members and 1000 individuals (the control group) were randomly selected from the general population. We used transversal data collection through a questionnaire, filled in by all participants in the study based on self-report on general data, skin type, habits, lifestyle and inheritance risk for cutaneous cancer. Analyzing the connection between risk factors reported and incidence for NMSC and melanoma, the following factors resulted significant: The control group the age variable >50 yo and BMI ≥25 were significant. The study group (military personnel), among the variables statistically examined through Pearson's test resulted significant: age > 50 years old, fair skin phenotype, sunburn during childhood, familial history of cutaneous cancer, dark spots (>20) on the arm, and coffee consumption as a protective factor. Military personnel has more significant risk factors for developing cutaneous cancer compared to other population groups therefore, prevention and early detection strategies are needed.

Keywords: melanoma; military personnel; nonmelanoma skin cancer; sun protection.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Melanoma* / epidemiology
  • Melanoma* / etiology
  • Middle Aged
  • Military Personnel*
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Neoplasms* / epidemiology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Sunburn* / epidemiology