95 Non-melanoma skin cancer, the most common form of skin cancer worldwide, may cause more damage than previously thought. New research suggests the disease affects not just the skin but also leads to widespread changes in the body’s immune system, metabolism, and inflammation levels. The findings were published in the journal Cancers. Unlike melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancer includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It is especially common among people with fair skin and those with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. While the visible damage appears on the skin’s surface, the new findings show that the disease can also disrupt the body’s internal balance. The research, which reviewed data from blood samples of skin cancer patients, found signs of increased oxidative stress. This refers to an imbalance where harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species outweigh the body’s ability to neutralise them. These molecules, often triggered by sun exposure, can damage proteins, lipids, and even DNA. The study revealed that patients had reduced levels of key antioxidants, which protect cells from damage, and elevated markers indicating cell injury. Inflammation was another key area of concern. The researchers observed increased levels of inflammatory markers and immune system compounds. These are signs that the body is mounting a continuous response to the cancer, which can place stress on organs and the immune system as a whole. Interestingly, some immune responses that typically help to fight off disease were found to be weakened, while others that contribute to tumour growth and inflammation were elevated. These internal changes could have significant implications. The authors warn that non-melanoma skin cancer may heighten the risk of developing other diseases, including secondary cancers. It may also affect how well the body regulates blood sugar, lipids, and nutrient absorption. The study found that many patients had vitamin and mineral deficiencies, even without noticeable dietary problems. One surprising finding was the link to vitamin D levels. Despite assumptions that skin cancer patients would have low vitamin D due to sun avoidance, some had higher levels, possibly from earlier overexposure to sunlight. This could lead to complications such as high calcium levels in the blood, which can affect bone and kidney health. The study adds weight to the idea that skin cancer should not be seen as a purely localised disease. Instead, it may require a broader treatment approach, including monitoring blood biomarkers, supporting nutritional health, and possibly addressing inflammation across the body. By understanding these systemic changes, doctors may be able to tailor treatments more effectively. The findings also highlight the need for better protection from UV exposure and greater awareness of how lifestyle factors contribute to long-term health outcomes in skin cancer patients.
Non-melanoma skin cancer, the most common form of skin cancer worldwide, may cause more damage than previously thought. New research suggests the disease affects not just the skin but also leads to widespread changes in the body’s immune system, metabolism, and inflammation levels. The findings were published in the journal Cancers. Unlike melanoma, non-melanoma skin cancer includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It is especially common among people with fair skin and those with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. While the visible damage appears on the skin’s surface, the new findings show that the disease can also disrupt the body’s internal balance. The research, which reviewed data from blood samples of skin cancer patients, found signs of increased oxidative stress. This refers to an imbalance where harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species outweigh the body’s ability to neutralise them. These molecules, often triggered by sun exposure, can damage proteins, lipids, and even DNA. The study revealed that patients had reduced levels of key antioxidants, which protect cells from damage, and elevated markers indicating cell injury. Inflammation was another key area of concern. The researchers observed increased levels of inflammatory markers and immune system compounds. These are signs that the body is mounting a continuous response to the cancer, which can place stress on organs and the immune system as a whole. Interestingly, some immune responses that typically help to fight off disease were found to be weakened, while others that contribute to tumour growth and inflammation were elevated. These internal changes could have significant implications. The authors warn that non-melanoma skin cancer may heighten the risk of developing other diseases, including secondary cancers. It may also affect how well the body regulates blood sugar, lipids, and nutrient absorption. The study found that many patients had vitamin and mineral deficiencies, even without noticeable dietary problems. One surprising finding was the link to vitamin D levels. Despite assumptions that skin cancer patients would have low vitamin D due to sun avoidance, some had higher levels, possibly from earlier overexposure to sunlight. This could lead to complications such as high calcium levels in the blood, which can affect bone and kidney health. The study adds weight to the idea that skin cancer should not be seen as a purely localised disease. Instead, it may require a broader treatment approach, including monitoring blood biomarkers, supporting nutritional health, and possibly addressing inflammation across the body. By understanding these systemic changes, doctors may be able to tailor treatments more effectively. The findings also highlight the need for better protection from UV exposure and greater awareness of how lifestyle factors contribute to long-term health outcomes in skin cancer patients.