Health
Risk Factors and Prevention of Melanoma
Melanoma, otherwise called malignant melanoma, is a cancer that forms from melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells that form the pigment melanin in your body, which gives color to your hair, eyes, and skin. There is nothing you can do that will completely eliminate possibilities of acquiring melanoma as it can sometimes be genetic in nature. However, you can avoid environmental risk factors and control it as much as you possibly can. The following are the risk factors that contribute to the development of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer: Fair skin Light-colored hair Light eyes A high number of moles on your body Genetics (family history of melanoma or other skin cancers) Past history of skin cancer or melanoma Weakened immune system Age: if you’re about 50 years old, you have a higher chance of developing melanoma. It occurs more frequently in youngsters than any other type of cancer. People with certain genetic conditions like xeroderma pigmentosum, Werner syndrome, ovarian or breast cancer, etc. Sun exposure: Exposure to UV radiation does your skin no good. People who live in sunny climates or at high altitudes have an increased risk of developing skin cancer and melanoma. Prevention of melanoma starts with protection from ultraviolet radiation Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is one of the leading causes of all types of skin cancer.
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