Risk factors associated with the occurrence of basal cell carcinoma.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequent malignant skin tumor, which is associated with both genetic factors and environmental influences. The objective of this study was to investigate the risk factors associated with the occurrence of BCC in the inhabitants of the Western Herzegovina area. The study took place during 1997-2003. We examined the risk factors which are presumably associated with the occurrence of BCC: skin type, exposure to UV rays and family occurrence of BCC, supplemented by the examination of the skin type, UV rays and existence of malignant tumors amongst the family members. We recorded a high correlation between the type of skin and the risk of occurrence of BCC. Long term and frequent skin exposure to UV rays were also associated with BCC. We also recorded increased risk for BCC in persons whose family members suffered from malignant skin tumors. Avoiding exposure to the sun as well as protection from UV rays may decrease the risk of BCC.