Thus, nonmelanoma skin cancer is most common among fair-skinned whites who live in sunny locales. Nonmelanoma skin cancer occurs less often in Hispanics and Orientals, and least often among blacks. Several studies have shown that basal cell skin cancer occurs about one and one-half to two times more often in white men than in white women, and squamous cell skin cancer occurs two to three times more often in men. There are other risk factors for nonmelanoma skin cancers. Exposure to a number of chemicals may also induce skin cancer in animals, particularly squamous cell carcinoma.
Epidemiologic studies substantiate their associated risk in humans.
Skin and other forms of cancer have been found in various worker groups exposed to these substances. Avoiding overexposure to sunlight is the best way to prevent nonmelanoma skin cancer. In addition to natural sunlight, it is also important to avoid unnecessary X-rays and ultraviolet light exposure from artificial sources such as sunlamps and tanning booths.