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Melanoma Causes & Risks

Causes

Skin cancer is caused by:

  • Ultraviolet radiation from the sun
  • Artificial radiation from sun lamps and tanning booths

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing melanoma:

  • Certain types of moles called dysplastic nevi, or atypical moles (which look similar to melanoma)
  • Large dysplastic nevi present at birth
  • Age: early adulthood, later in life
  • Race: white
  • Fair skin
  • Red or blonde hair
  • Light-colored eyes
  • Family members with melanoma
  • Excessive skin exposure to the sun without protective clothing or sunscreen
  • Suppressed immune system

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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