Melanoma Causes & Risk Factors

There are several factors, both genetic and environmental, that may put you at risk for melanoma. If a family member has had melanoma, you are at a higher risk for the disease. Also, you are at a greater risk for melanoma if you have light hair and... Full Answer

Though the specific cause of melanoma is unknown, it appears that melanoma develops when there are problems with the DNA that controls skin cells. In people with melanoma, DNA is damaged and causes an overgrowth of skin cells, which results in a... Full Answer

Everyone has risk for melanoma, but the people most at risk are those who with the following characteristics or factors: Fair skin. Light-eyes. Freckles. Moles (especially multiple). Easily burned by the sun. Subject to excessive sun exposure, including... Full Answer

Skin cancers comprise a rare 1 to 2% of all cancers in African Americans, yet the death rate is most fatal, since many assume natural protection, and aren’t diagnosed with melanoma until it’s too late. Today, according to the Skin Cancer... Full Answer

A condition called dysplastic nevus syndrome, also known as familial melanoma syndrome or familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome, can increase a person's risk for developing melanoma. A "nevus" is a mole. These particular moles are... Full Answer

Once you've got your daily sun, here's what you can do to make sure you protect yourself from harm: Year-round, rain or shine, make sure your food and supplements deliver a total of 1,000 IUs of vitamin D3 and 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily.... Full Answer

Melanoma is less prevalent in black skin. However, melanoma in black skin has been more likely to occur in atypical locations, such as the palms and soles of feet.   Full Answer

Even though fair-skinned and light-haired people are most at risk for developing melanoma, it's possible for people with dark skin to develop the disease, too. In people with darker skin tones, their skin naturally produces more melanin, or pigment,... Full Answer

There have been various studies looking at the incidence of second melanomas, and there is no clear answer to your question. We do know that you are at a higher risk for getting another melanoma compared with people who have never had melanoma,... Full Answer

Familial atypical mole and melanoma (FAM-M) syndrome is an inherited tendency to develop melanoma. FAM-M syndrome is present when: Melanoma has been diagnosed in a family member, including grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Several family members... Full Answer