1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Skin Cancer

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.

What Is Your Risk of Developing Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer?

An introduction to the risk factors associated with nonmelanoma skin cancers such as basal and squamous cell carcinoma.

Less Common Risk Factors for Basal and Squamous Cell Cancer

Besides ultraviolet light, a variety of diseases, skin conditions, chemicals, and medicines can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

Melanoma Risk Factors

Researchers have found several risk factors that alone or in combination may make you more likely to develop melanoma skin cancer.

Cancer Genetics and Melanoma

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.

How to Help a Dermatologist Assess Your Risk

Your family and personal medical histories provide vital information that help a dermatologist assess your risk for developing skin cancer, especially melanoma.
Explore Skin Cancer
About.com Special Features

8 Ways to Cut Drug Costs

Learn how to save money on medications with these recommendations. More >

Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this season. More >

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Skin Cancer
  4. Risk Factors

©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.