Is there any evidence that wearing sunglasses increases the risk of cancer?

There is no evidence that wearing sunglasses increases the risk of cancer. In fact, sunglasses are recommended as part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy to reduce ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, which is a known risk factor for skin and ocular cancers.

UV radiation contributes to the development of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, and also to eye conditions including eyelid cancers. Protective measures against UV exposure include wearing suitable clothing, applying sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses that provide UV protection. These measures help reduce the risk of UV-induced damage without increasing cancer risk themselves NICE NG34,NICE CKS,NICE CKS.

Wearing sunglasses helps protect the eyes and surrounding skin, which are areas exposed to sunlight and vulnerable to UV damage and skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the eyelids. Lack of awareness and insufficient use of sun protection including sunglasses have been associated with poorer outcomes and late diagnoses in eyelid cancers May et al. 2026.

Surveys report that wearing sunglasses is a common preventive behavior among populations aware of sun exposure risks, with sunglasses use linked to sun safety education and higher awareness, rather than any adverse health effect including cancer May et al. 2026. There is no evidence that sunglasses themselves increase cancer risk; rather, they are part of sun protection measures recommended by NICE and dermatological associations NICE NG34,NICE CKS,NICE CKSMay et al. 2026Tran et al. 2025.

Although some populations—such as outdoor workers and rural farmers—may inadequately use sunglasses and other sun protection due to socioeconomic barriers or lack of knowledge, the correction of these gaps through education and access improvement forms an important part of cancer prevention strategies Santisteban Salazar et al. 2026.