Who is At Greater Risk of Developing Melanoma?

Melanoma risk factors are any factors that will put you at a higher risk of developing melanoma. Heightened risk factors do not mean that you will develop Melanoma, but it does mean that you are at an increased risk of Melanoma.

One in four people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year. Understanding the risk factors is important.

Melanoma Risk Factors

One of the biggest risk factors for developing skin cancer is UV exposure. Exposure to the sun has been linked to developing skin cancer. You do not have to lay in the sun for hours on end to be in danger of too much sun exposure.

Anytime you are in the sun you are being exposed to harmful UV rays. Anytime you are going to be outdoors is a good time to slather on the sunblock. A high-quality sunblock can help you to reduce the risk of skin cancer that develops because of UV exposure. Of course, the sun is not the only risk factor.

Genetics may play a role in whether you develop skin cancer. If you have first degree relatives (mom and dad, sisters and brothers) you are in a higher risk group. Other risk factors include:

• Fair skin, freckled skin, and light-colored hair
• Having unchecked moles
• Personal history of melanoma

There is some indication that fair-haired, fair-skinned people, that tend to develop freckling when exposed to the sun are more likely to develop skin cancer. Moles can be an indication that you will develop skin cancer. People that have had melanoma in the past are at a higher risk of developing it again.

Prevention is Key

One of the best ways to reduce the risks of skin cancer is through prevention. Sunblock, covering up when you are in the sun, and having annual skin checks by a dermatologist can help reduce risks.

Luckily the melanoma treatment has evolved. If this type of cancer is caught early melanoma treatment Panama City FL patients have found can deliver a very high cure rate.

MOHS is the Best Treatment

MOHS (pronounced Moes) surgery can rid you of skin cancer while conserving healthy tissue. Before MOHS surgery, skin cancer removal surgery left large scars and incised a large amount of healthy tissue. This type of surgery is not available through every dermatologist.

The MOHS surgeon has gone through extensive training. It is a life-saving specialty skill. Most melanoma requires no other treatment than MOHS surgery.

What Should You Do As Soon As Possible?

Beating skin cancer highly depends on early interventions. Make an appointment to see a dermatologist for a skin check. Have moles evaluated by a dermatologist? Follow the guidelines from the American Cancer Society regarding the prevention of skin cancer.