Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been implicated in various cancers, including those affecting the skin. The study assessed the long-term risk of skin cancer associated with HPV infection in Taiwan region, using data from the National Health Insurance Research Database between 2007 and 2015. Our analysis revealed a significant increase in skin cancer risk among those with HPV, particularly for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the subtype with the highest observed adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 5.97, 95% CI: 4.96–7.19). The overall aHR for HPV-related skin cancer was 5.22 (95% CI: 4.70–5.80), indicating a notably higher risk in the HPV-positive group. The risk of skin cancer was further stratified by type, with basal cell carcinoma (aHR = 4.88, 95% CI: 4.14–5.74), and melanoma (aHR = 4.36, 95% CI: 2.76–6.89) also showing significant associations with HPV. The study also highlighted regional variations, with increased risks in southern Taiwan and the Kaohsiung-Pingtung area. Key findings emphasize the importance of sun protection, particularly in regions of high UV exposure and among individuals in high-risk occupations. This research contributes to a better understanding of the complex interactions between HPV and skin cancer risk, reinforcing the importance of preventive strategies in public health.
人乳头瘤病毒(HPV)已被证实与多种癌症相关,包括皮肤癌。本研究利用2007年至2015年间台湾地区全民健康保险研究数据库的数据,评估了HPV感染与皮肤癌长期风险的关联。分析结果显示,HPV感染者的皮肤癌风险显著升高,尤其以鳞状细胞癌最为突出(校正风险比[aHR] = 5.97,95%置信区间:4.96–7.19)。HPV相关皮肤癌的总体aHR为5.22(95%置信区间:4.70–5.80),表明HPV阳性群体的患病风险显著更高。研究进一步按皮肤癌类型分层分析,发现基底细胞癌(aHR = 4.88,95%置信区间:4.14–5.74)和黑色素瘤(aHR = 4.36,95%置信区间:2.76–6.89)也与HPV感染存在显著关联。研究同时揭示了地域差异,台湾南部及高雄-屏东地区的风险尤为突出。关键发现强调了防晒措施的重要性,特别是在紫外线暴露强烈的地区及高风险职业人群中。本研究有助于深化对HPV与皮肤癌风险复杂相互作用的理解,并强化了公共卫生领域预防策略的重要性。