RISK FACTORS FOR MELANOMA SKIN CANCER:

• Sunlight (UV radiation): Too much exposure to UV radiation is a risk factor for melanoma. The main source of such radiation is sunlight. Sun-beds and booths are another source and more dangerous because of year-round access 24 hours a day, unlike the sun.
• Moles: A mole (nevus) is a benign (not cancerous) skin tumour. Certain types of moles increase a person's chance of getting melanoma. People with lots of moles, and those who have some large moles, have an increased risk for melanoma.
• Fair skin versus dark: People with fair skin, freckling, or red or blond hair have a higher risk of melanoma.  This does not rule out people of darker complexions, contrary to popular belief. Unfortunately the darker peoples' skin, the less sun protection they practice because of the belief that they are not at risk.
• Family history: Around 10 % of people with melanoma have a close relative (mother father, brother, sister, child) with the disease. This could be because the family tends to spend more time in the sun or because the members have fair skin, or both.
• Immune system suppression: People who have been treated with medicines that suppress the immune system, such as transplant patients, have an increased risk of developing melanoma.
• Age: Melanoma is more likely to happen to older people. But it is one of the few cancers that is also found in younger people.
• Gender: Men have a higher rate of this cancer than women.
• Past history of melanoma: A person who has already had melanoma has a higher risk of getting another melanoma.

For further information on Skin cancer campaigns and resources:

Cancer Research  UK
P.O. Box 123
Lincoln 's Inn Fields
London WC2A 3PX

Tel (Customer Services): 020 7009 8820
Tel (Switchboard): 020 7242 0200
Fax: 020 7269 3100
Web: www.cancerresearchuk.org

Marie Curie Cancer Care
89 Albert Embankment
London
SE1 7TP