
Dr. Quinn Rivet B.Sc., N.D.
Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common cancer among humans and solar UV radiation, particularly its UVB component (290-320 nm), is its major cause. One way to reduce the occurrence of the cancer is via the use of substances (often antioxidants) termed “photochemopreventive agents”. ‘Photochemoprotection’, which we define as ‘the use of agents capable of ameliorating the adverse effects of UVB on the skin’. Among many photochemoprotective agents, botanical antioxidants are showing promise. Because UV radiation is known to cause excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) thereby resulting in an oxidative stress condition. Approaches aimed at counteracting ROS production may be useful for the prevention of skin cancer. One approach to reduce its occurrence is through the eating of foods that have resveratrol in them. Resveratrol (trans-3,4′,5-trihydroxystilbene), a phytoalexin found in grapes, nuts, fruits, and red wine, is a potent antioxidant with strong anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties. Continue reading →