Significant Risk Factors for Developing Skin Cancer

There are several significant risk factors for developing skin cancer. The National Cancer Institute estimates that nearly 50 percent of all people over the age of 65 will develop skin cancer at least once, and the cases of skin cancer continue to grow annually. For this reason, it is important for everyone to be aware of the risk factors for developing skin cancer so they can work to avoid them.

Skin Type

Very light-skinned people who freckle or burn easily in the sun are at the greatest risk for developing skin cancer.

Sun Exposure

The Center for Disease Control estimates that 65 to 90 percent of all skin cancer cases are directly related to excessive sun exposure. Those living in sunny climates, those who work outdoors and those who never wear sunscreen are at a heightened risk for developing skin cancer.

Sun Burns

Major sun burns that cause the skin to blister are risk factors for developing skin cancer. These risks increase when a person experiences severe sun burns as a child or teenager.

Family History

As with many cancers, skin cancer appears to have a genetic link. If a parent has skin cancer, his offspring is more likely to develop skin cancer.

Moles

While small, symmetrical, brown-colored moles are considered normal, when a person has more than 50 of these ordinary moles, she is at a heightened risk of developing skin cancer. It is important for those with many moles to track any changes in their moles carefully.

Age

Most cases of skin cancer happen in people over the age of 50. However, most of the skin damage that leads to skin cancer is experienced early in life and often does not develop into cancer until later on.

Resources

• Center for Disease Control
• National Cancer Institute

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