Chemoprevention of skin cancer through natural agents

To reduce the occurrence of skin cancers, the use of sunscreens and wearing protective clothing while in the sun are emphasized. These are important s trategies, but sadly these efforts are only partially effective. Thus, the development of novel strategies to reduce the occurrence of skin cancer is a highly desirable goal. One attractive approach is through chemoprevention which is the use of naturally occurring agents or synthetic compounds to p revent the occurrence and subsequent development of cancer. The ideal chemo preventive agent(s) for use for prevention of skin cancer must be available in its active form with none or minimal toxicity and a known mechanism of action. A wide range of synthetic and naturally occurring agents have been identified as a rich source of skin cancer chemopreventive agents. For a va riety of reasons, there is a greater emphasis on the use of naturally occur ring compounds for skin cancer chemoprevention, and many such agents have f ound a place in skin care products. This review focuses on the use of natur ally occurring agents present in the diet and beverages consumed by humans for the chemoprevention of skin cancer. Copyright (C) 2001 S. Karger AG, Ba sel.