Melanoma is a type of cancer that can form on the surface of your skin, and it’s often caused by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In 2022 alone, experts predict there will be nearly 100,000 new cases diagnosed, according to the American Cancer Society.
Overall, melanoma is more common among men. For those under the age of 50, there seems to be a higher incidence in women. While the risk increases with age, anyone can develop melanoma.
There are a variety of different hereditary risk factors that can determine your chances of developing skin cancer, including melanoma—and some may be at higher risk than others.
Some melanoma risk factors include:
- Being fair-skinned
- Blond hair and blue eyes
- Family history of skin cancer
- Having multiple sunburns
- Weakened immune system
- Living closer to the equator or at a higher altitude
- Dysplastic nevus syndrome (DNS), an inherited condition characterized by numerous atypical moles—often thousands
- A prior history of melanoma
If any of this applies to you, it’s even more important that you see your dermatologist regularly. They can help monitor your skin for any suspicious changes and provide tips on how to stay safe in the sun.
Skin checks are the best way to detect melanoma at its earliest, most treatable stage. These can also help determine your risk level so you can take measures to reduce the likelihood of developing advanced-stage skin cancer.
Despite being one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer, melanoma is highly curable when detected and treated early. If you have any concerns about your skin, visit your dermatologist for a check-up. Early detection is key.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
Melanoma is a type of cancer that can form on the surface of your skin, and it’s often caused by exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In 2022 alone, experts predict there will be nearly 100,000 new cases diagnosed, according to the American Cancer Society.
Overall, melanoma is more common among men. For those under the age of 50, there seems to be a higher incidence in women. While the risk increases with age, anyone can develop melanoma.
Read More There are a variety of different hereditary risk factors that can determine your chances of developing skin cancer, including melanoma—and some may be at higher risk than others.
Some melanoma risk factors include:
- Being fair-skinned
- Blond hair and blue eyes
- Family history of skin cancer
- Having multiple sunburns
- Weakened immune system
- Living closer to the equator or at a higher altitude
- Dysplastic nevus syndrome (DNS), an inherited condition characterized by numerous atypical moles—often thousands
- A prior history of melanoma
If any of this applies to you, it’s even more important that you see your dermatologist regularly. They can help monitor your skin for any suspicious changes and provide tips on how to stay safe in the sun.
Skin checks are the best way to detect melanoma at its earliest, most treatable stage. These can also help determine your risk level so you can take measures to reduce the likelihood of developing advanced-stage skin cancer.
Despite being one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer, melanoma is highly curable when detected and treated early. If you have any concerns about your skin, visit your dermatologist for a check-up. Early detection is key.
Learn more about SurvivorNet's rigorous medical review process.
