While melanoma risk is largely genetically determined, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in sunlight is the major environmental risk factor. Although sunscreen use can reduce melanoma risk 2-fold, its efficacy has been questioned, and most patients do not apply sunscreens properly.
This study will evaluate the downstream effects of aspirin (ASA) in human blood and skin moles (nevi) following oral ingestion. We will determine if chronic ingestion of ASA can modulate UV-sensitivity of the skin, UV-induced damage in nevi, and PGE2 levels in blood and nevi.