University Presentation Showcase: Undergraduate Poster Gallery
Preview
Creation Date
Spring 2023
Major
Biomedical Sciences
Department
Biological Sciences
Degree
Undergraduate
Mentor
Lisa S. Middleton
Mentor Department
Biological Sciences
Abstract
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States with about 9,500 people diagnosed every day.1 Basal and squamous cell carcinoma affect more than 3 million Americans per year.1 Past studies determined that chronic stress suppresses immune function and may increase susceptibility to skin cancer.2 Former studies have also found that as sun exposed skin ages, it becomes more susceptible to "transforming events" like cancer.3 The goal of this study was to determine whether lifestyle factors (sun exposure and stress) alter the prevalence of basal and squamous cell carcinoma in humans. Surveys were administered to patients (n=124), ages 18-55+, in a dermatology practice in Kentucky. In these patients, high sun exposure did not correlate with increased rates of skin cancer. Of the patients reporting high sun exposure, 74% had no skin cancer diagnosis. Similarly, patients reporting high stress levels did not have a significant increase in skin cancer diagnosis; and 64% of patients who had low stress also had skin cancer. Chi square analysis revealed no correlation between sun exposure, stress, and skin cancer diagnosis. These data do not support previously published studies indicating stress and sun exposure affect the occurrence of skin cancer. It is possible that other lifestyle factors may impact the incidence of cancer in this group of patients. Moreover, there may be differences between sun exposure, stress, and the type of skin cancer (e.g., melanoma) that affects patients. Further studies to examine these factors are warranted.
