Cancer that occurs in the skin’s pigment cells is known as melanoma. If it is not detected and treated early it can spread to other organs and tissues of the body. Listed below are a few of the risk factors and prevention tips for melanoma.

Risk factors
Something that increases your chances of contracting or developing a certain condition or disease is known as a risk factor. Some of the risk factors for melanoma are:

Exposure to the sun – Over exposure to the ultraviolet radiation of the sun can cause the development of this skin cancer. Hence, people who spend significant time outdoors especially at midday, those who live in high altitudes or those living in places that receive plenty of sunlight throughout the year are at a higher risk of developing melanoma.

Indoor tanning – In addition to sun tanning outdoors, the use of tanning beds and sun lamps have also been linked to the development of skin cancer.

Moles – Individuals that have many moles or moles that are unusual are at high risk of developing melanoma. Unusual moles also known as dysplastic nevi or atypical moles are those that have an irregular color or shape.

Complexion – It has been seen that people with a fair complexion, blond or red hair, blue eye, and freckles have an increased risk of melanoma. Similarly, people that have skin that is prone to sunburn can also develop this form of skin cancer.

Family history – It has been observed that approximately 10% of people with melanoma have a family history of the condition. If you have a close relative such as a parent, sibling or child who has been diagnosed with melanoma your chances of developing the same is about 2-3 times higher. The risk is further increased if the family members diagnosed with melanoma live in various other locations.

Age – Although the average age of diagnosis of this type of cancer is 65 years, it is also diagnosed in young adults.

Previous occurrences of skin cancer – Individuals who have been previously diagnosed with basal cell or squamous cell skin cancer have an increased risk of also developing melanomas.

Prevention
In this article on the risk factors and prevention tips for melanoma, let us now take a look at a few ways in which this caner can be prevented

Reduce sun exposure – Limit your outdoor activities between 10 am and 4 pm. If you do have to go out wear protective clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 and protects against both UVA and UVB radiation. Reapply sunscreen every two hours especially if sweating or swimming. Use sunscreen throughout the year even when cloudy.

Avoid tanning – Try to avoid the use of sun lamps, tanning beds and recreational outdoor sunbathing.

Now that you know the risk factors and prevention tips for melanoma, you should be cautious especially when going out in the sun. Check your skin regularly for abnormalities and consult your doctor if you do find any.