How can UV exposure lead to skin cancer?

UV exposure is known to cause skin cancer primarily by damaging the DNA in skin cells. When skin cells are subjected to ultraviolet radiation, it can result in mutations in their DNA. This damage affects the normal function and regulation of the cells, potentially leading to uncontrolled cell division and growth, which are characteristic of cancer.

Skin cells have built-in mechanisms to repair DNA damage, but excessive UV exposure can overwhelm these repair processes. If the DNA damage is not repaired correctly, it can result in mutations that persist in the cell's genetic material. Over time, the accumulation of these mutations can lead to various types of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Understanding this mechanism emphasizes the importance of sun protection and responsible UV exposure to reduce the risk of skin cancer effectively.