Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in pigment-producing cells known as melanocytes, which are commonly found in moles. It most often develops in areas of the skin that have been overexposed to the sun. However, melanoma can also occur in areas that are rarely exposed to the sun, such as inside the eye, under the nail, or in areas like the genital region, palms, or soles of the feet.

Due to its potential to spread rapidly, it is crucial to catch melanoma early through regular skin checks and self-examinations.

Risk Factors for Melanoma

Several factors increase the risk of developing melanoma, a type of skin cancer. These factors include:

• Multiple sunburns and frequent UV exposure: Repeated sunburns and exposure to UV rays are major contributors to the development of melanoma.
• Fair skin: Individuals with red or blonde hair, green or blue eyes, or skin that burns easily and does not tan are more susceptible to melanoma. People with darker skin are generally less at risk because they have more melanin, which provides some natural protection from UV damage.
• Childhood sun exposure: Children’s skin is especially vulnerable to damage, and sun exposure during childhood is the most damaging. Those who experienced a lot of freckling or frequent, severe sunburns during childhood are at higher risk for developing melanoma later in life, as skin damage can occur years before cancer develops.
• Location of melanoma: In women, the most common location for melanoma is on the legs, while in men, it is on the chest or back. Rarely, melanoma can also develop in the iris (eye) or on the back of the eye. If melanoma spreads, nearby lymph nodes may swell.

Other Risk Factors:

• Family history: If a close blood relative has had melanoma, your risk of developing it doubles. This increased risk may be due to both shared family behaviours, such as frequent sun exposure, and genetic factors. Around 1 in 10 people with melanoma have a relative who has also had it. If you have a family history of melanoma, you should take extra precautions to protect your skin from sun damage and regularly check for early signs of melanoma.
• Having many moles: People with numerous moles (especially 100 or more) have a higher risk of developing melanoma.
• Atypical (non-typical) moles: Moles that are larger than usual or have irregular shapes or colors (known as atypical or dysplastic moles) can increase the risk of melanoma. While these moles may not always become cancerous, it is important to monitor them closely, especially if you have a family history of melanoma.
• Using sunbeds or tanning machines: Using tanning beds or machines that emit UV light increases the risk of melanoma, especially in people with fair skin, red hair, and freckles, and in those under the age of 20.
• Immune suppression state or weak immunity: People with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV infection or those on immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., after an organ transplant), have an increased risk of developing melanoma.

Unlike non-melanoma skin cancers, melanomas can develop in areas that are rarely exposed to the sun, such as the soles of the feet or private areas. Even brief periods of sun exposure, like during a holiday, can contribute to damage that leads to melanoma.

Melanoma can present like a pink skin rash or a rapidly growing pimple. These versions of Melanomas are very tricky as they may not be pigmented and have pink colour.

Understanding these risk factors can help you take preventive measures and be proactive about your skin health. Regular skin checks and self-examinations are key to detecting melanoma early, when it is most treatable.