Melanoma is a rare but serious form of skin cancer. It is the fifth most common cancer diagnosed in the United States annually. Unfortunately, melanoma diagnoses have also increased in the last several years. Researchers at the OSUCCC – James are still exploring the underlying causes of melanoma; however, there are some known risk factors associated with the condition. Therefore, it’s important to understand your personal risk and to contact your doctor if necessary. By taking proactive steps, you can help reduce your risk of developing melanoma.
How to prevent melanoma
When it comes to skin cancer, prevention is key. There are some steps you can take to help reduce your risk of developing melanoma.
Reduce exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
One of the best ways to help reduce your risk of developing melanoma is to limit your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation sources like the sun. It’s thought that excessive UV radiation can damage your skin cells. If you spend time outdoors, wear sunscreen that’s at least SPF 30 or higher. You should reapply it often, especially after swimming or excessive sweating. Avoid being outdoors during peak sunlight of the day (usually from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.) and wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses.
Avoid tanning beds
Tanning beds and artificial sunlamps should be avoided as they can increase the likelihood of developing melanoma. If you use a tanning bed before the age of 35, you’re 60-80% more likely to develop melanoma of the skin.
Be mindful of previous melanoma diagnoses
If you’ve been previously diagnosed with melanoma, regular skin checks are essential, as recurrence of melanoma is possible. By regularly monitoring your skin and consulting with your health care provider, you can detect early signs of melanoma and get treatment.
Risk factors for melanoma
Researchers are still exploring why some people may develop melanoma and others don’t. However, risk factors do play a role.
A risk factor is anything that increases your risk of developing a condition. It’s important to remember that just because you may have a risk factor, this doesn’t mean you’ll develop melanoma. You should talk to your doctor to understand your specific risk.
Risk factors for melanoma include:
- Having a fair complexion, which includes the following:
- Fair skin that freckles and burns easily, does not tan or tans poorly
- Blue or green or other light-colored eyes
- Red or blond hair
Although having a fair complexion increases melanoma risk, anyone, including people with dark skin, can develop the disease.
- Exposure to natural sunlight or artificial sunlight (such as from tanning beds) over long periods of time
- Exposure to certain environmental risk factors, such as radiation, solvents, vinyl chloride and PCBs (an industrial chemical that was banned in the United States in 1979)
- Previous history of many blistering sunburns, especially as an adolescent
- Having several large or many small moles
- Having a family history of unusual moles (known as atypical nevus syndrome)
- Having a family or personal history of melanoma
- Having a weakened immune system or taking medication that can weaken the immune system
- Having certain changes in the genes that are linked to melanoma
You can lower your risk for melanoma and other skin cancers by minimizing exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, sunlamps and tanning beds. If you’re at risk of developing melanoma, talk to your doctor about tests to find out if you have early signs of the disease.
If you’ve been diagnosed with melanoma or would like a second opinion, please call The James Line at 800-293-5066 or 614-293-5066 to make an appointment.