What is the main cause of skin malignancies such as basal cell carcinoma?

Prolonged UV exposure is recognized as the primary cause of skin malignancies, particularly basal cell carcinoma. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or from artificial sources like tanning beds can damage the DNA in skin cells. This damage can lead to mutations, which disrupt normal cell function and growth control, contributing to the development of cancer. Basal cell carcinoma, which is the most prevalent form of skin cancer, typically arises on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to sunlight, indicating that UV radiation is a crucial risk factor.

While genetic predisposition plays a role in an individual's risk for developing skin cancer, it is often the combination of genetic factors and environmental exposures, primarily UV radiation, that leads to the manifestation of skin malignancies. Hormonal changes and environmental pollutants may influence other health issues but are less significant contributors to the incidence of basal cell carcinoma compared to UV exposure. This underscores the importance of sun protection measures in preventing skin cancer.