Chemoprevention: A role in melanoma?

Melanoma, a neoplasm of the pigment-producing cells in the epidermis, is the most deadly form of skin cancer owing to its aggressive nature and resistance to treatment. The number of new cases of melanoma diagnosed per year continues to rise, despite public health initiatives promoting sun avoidance and protection. Melanoma formation has been postulated to result from a multistep process. Investigation into multiple novel agents that block UV radiation, prevent activation of oncogenes and oxidative stress, exploit apoptosis, and boost the immune system, have been suggested as promising strategies for melanoma chemoprevention. As no agent has yet emerged as a clear choice for effective melanoma chemoprevention, advising patients to avoid excessive sun exposure remains the mainstay of melanoma prevention for those at high risk.