Skin Cancer Risk Factors
People of any age, race, or skin color can develop skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. However, the likelihood of developing these diseases increases when you have one or more of the risk factors described in this section.
An introduction to the risk factors associated with nonmelanoma skin cancers such as basal and squamous cell carcinoma.
Besides ultraviolet light, a variety of diseases, skin conditions, chemicals, and medicines can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
Researchers have found several risk factors that alone or in combination may make you more likely to develop melanoma skin cancer.
A number of genetic factors are being investigated for their role in melanoma, including inherited genes as well genetic defects that are acquired from excessive sun exposure.
Your family and personal medical histories provide vital information that help a dermatologist assess your risk for developing skin cancer, especially melanoma.
