Risk Factors

People Exposed to Intermittent Intense Sunburns. Melanoma is associated with both duration and intensity of sun exposure. Risk of melanoma increases with excessive sun exposure during the first 10 to 18 years of life. Sunburns are also dangerous, with five or more sunburns doubling the risk of developing cancer. Cancer typically arises many years later.

Fortunately, many parents are now taking effective steps to protect their children, although experts worry that they are relying too much on sunscreen and less on other protective measures. Adolescents, however, are at special risk for sun-related cancers because, according to a 2002 study, the majority fail to take protective measures when out in the sun. According to the study, boys are less likely to use sunscreen than girls, but girls have more likely to get sunburn and use tanning salons more often. Adults who work indoors and experience the occasional weekend sunburn may also be at increased danger.

Tanning Devices. Tanning beds and sunlamps increase the risk for developing melanoma, according to a 2005 review of epidemiologic studies. Previous findings have suggested that women who use tanning devices more than once a month significantly increase their melanoma risk. Women in their 20s, as well as blondes and redheads, are especially at risk.

Personal or Family History of Melanoma

Individuals who have been diagnosed with melanoma are at increased risk for a second primary melanoma. According to one 2003 study, the risk over time for developing a second melanoma is 1% in the first year after diagnosis, 2.1% at 5 years, 3.2% at 10 years, and 5.3% at 20 years. The risk is especially higher in older men and in those with first melanomas on the upper body and face.

People with family members who have or had melanoma should also be considered at high risk and examined on a regular basis.