Anyone can get skin cancer, however individuals with certain risk factors are especially at risk. Some risk factors for skin cancer include.
Lighter natural skin color
Family history of skin cancer
Personal history of skin cancer
Constant exposure to the sun
A history of sunburns early in life
Skin that burns, freckles, gets red easily, or becomes painful in the sun
Blue or green eyes
Blond or red hair
Certain types and a large number of moles
It isn't currently known how Melanoma develops in normal skin types, however the number of incidences of Melanoma increases every year:
Melanoma is in epidemic growth at ~ 3% rise in cases per year
53,000+ new cases reported yearly - 7800+ deaths yearly
Fastest growing cancer currently in USA and worldwide
Most common cancer in young adults aged 20-30
Currently there are MORE new cases of melanoma than HIV/AIDS
Women age 25-30: melanoma is the primary cause of cancer death
Women age 30-35: melanoma is the #2 cause of death (after breast cancer)
Melanoma = 5% of all skin cancers - 71% all skin cancer deaths
Melanoma does occur in ALL age groups,including Pediatric age groups
Disclaimer: This information is meant to be used a guideline. It is not to be used in place of a physician's care or medical advice.