Can Psoriasis Cause Skin Cancer? Understanding the Link
Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. It affects more than 125 million people worldwide. While many people focus on how psoriasis looks or feels, doctors and researchers have started paying closer attention to something more serious: it's possible link to skin cancer. Some studies suggest that people with psoriasis may have a higher risk of developing certain types of skin cancer.
This possible link doesn’t come from the condition alone. It also involves the treatments used and how they affect the immune system.
How Psoriasis and Skin Cancer Might Be Connected
Recent research has found that people with psoriasis may be more likely to get both nonmelanoma skin cancers - like basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) - as well as melanoma. A 2023 review confirmed this increased risk compared to people without psoriasis.
There are two main reasons for this:
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Chronic inflammation - Psoriasis causes long-lasting inflammation in the skin. Over time, this can damage skin cells and weaken the body’s ability to detect and destroy cancer cells.
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Certain treatments - Some psoriasis treatments, especially older ones like PUVA (a type of light therapy), and long-term use of immune-suppressing drugs, may slightly increase the risk of developing skin cancer. A 2020 study showed that the risk of squamous cell carcinoma goes up with more PUVA sessions.
Are Some Treatments Riskier Than Others?
Yes. Not all treatments carry the same level of risk. PUVA therapy - where patients take a light-sensitizing pill and then are exposed to UVA light - has been linked to a higher chance of skin cancer. Because of this, it’s now used less often. On the other hand, narrowband UVB therapy is safer and more commonly used today.
Some people with severe psoriasis may take immune-suppressing pills like methotrexate or cyclosporine for a long time. These medications can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight off abnormal cell growth. Newer biologics…and the drugs (such as TNF blockers or IL-17/IL-23 inhibitors) are being studied closely, but so far, research has not shown a strong link between biologics and skin cancer.
Other Things That Raise Risk
Aside from treatments, other personal factors can raise your risk of skin cancer:
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Fair or sensitive skin
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A history of bad sunburns or frequent sun exposure
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Smoking or heavy alcohol use
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A family or personal history of cancer
A Medical News Today article points out that people with psoriasis are more likely to smoke or drink heavily, which can also increase cancer risk.
What Can You Do to Reduce Cancer Risk If You Have Psoriasis?
While you can’t change some risk factors like your skin type or genes, there are many ways to help protect yourself:
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Get regular skin checks: Visit a dermatologist once or twice a year for a full-body skin exam, especially if you’ve had PUVA therapy or have many moles or sunspots.
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Protect your skin from the sun: Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear hats and long sleeves, and avoid tanning beds.
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Talk to your doctor about treatment options: Some treatments carry more cancer risk than others. Ask your doctor about safer alternatives and keep up with new research.
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Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: These habits can lower your immune function and make it harder for your body to fight off cancer cells.
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Keep an eye on your skin: Report any new or changing spots, sores that don’t heal, or unusual growths.
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Stay informed: Science is always evolving. Understanding the risks helps you make smart choices with your doctor’s help.
Final Thoughts
Psoriasis doesn’t directly cause skin cancer, but it can increase your risk, mainly due to chronic inflammation, certain treatments, and personal health habits. If you manage your condition carefully, work closely with your dermatologist, and take steps to protect your skin, you can lower your chances of developing complications.
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