5 Risk Factors for Melanoma

Melanoma only makes up about 1% of skin cancer cases. However, just because it’s rare doesn’t mean we should ignore it. It causes the lion’s share of skin cancer deaths.

Fortunately, the melanoma death rate has declined over the last decade. That can be attributed to both advancing treatment options and to people getting better at spotting this kind of cancer. The sooner you catch melanoma, the easier it is to treat. 

This makes it important to regularly check your skin yourself. And if you have a heightened risk of this kind of skin cancer, it’s worth getting a skin cancer screening from Ali Hendi, MD, or Joanna Dong, MD, at our office in Chevy Chase, Maryland. We can look for melanoma and other types of skin cancer, and if we find any, develop a plan to get rid of the cancerous cells. 

Should you be getting routine skin cancer checks? If any of these risk factors apply to you, the answer is probably yes.

#1: UV exposure

The sun’s ultraviolet rays damage your skin cells. That damage can disrupt the cell’s natural processes and encourage abnormal growth, i.e., cancer. 

If you get a lot of sun and haven’t been great about sun protection, you have a higher risk for melanoma. Serious sunburns also increase your risk for this kind of skin cancer. 

Time outside isn’t the only way to get UV exposure. If you use or used tanning beds, their UV lamps can contribute to melanoma. 

#2: Moles

Most moles aren’t harmful, but their presence puts you in a higher risk category when it comes to melanoma.

If you have more than 50 moles, you’re statistically more likely to get this kind of skin cancer. That’s also true if you have abnormal moles (dysplastic nevi) — moles that don’t look like the other moles on your body. They might be bigger or have irregular borders, for example. 

#3: Light skin

Pale skin is more susceptible to damage from the sun. As a result, fair-skinned people are more likely to get melanoma. If you get a sunburn quickly and your skin can’t develop much of a tan, this applies to you. 

#4: A personal or family history of skin cancer

If one of your immediate family members has had melanoma, you’re more likely to develop this type of skin cancer.

A personal history of skin cancer also increases your risk. That’s true if you’ve had melanoma, but it also applies if you’ve had basal or squamous cell skin cancer. 

#5: A weakened immune system

If you have a health condition that interferes with your immune system, be extra diligent about screening for melanoma. 

If any of these risk factors apply to you, you can get peace of mind by scheduling regular skin cancer screenings at Ali Hendi, MD. To book yours, call our office at 301-812-4591 or make an appointment online today.