There is no one causal factor for developing melanoma. Factors that are associated with a higher risk of developing melanoma include:
Appearance
Including fair skin that burns or freckles easily, blue or green eyes, and blonde or red hair
Sunlight exposure
Exposure to sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet (UV) energy (eg. tanning beds).
Many moles
Having many moles, both normal and atypical.
History of sunburn
History of sunburns that caused blistering, especially in childhood.
Personal and/or family history
Personal and/or family history of skin cancer, including melanoma.
Age
Risk increasing with age.
Close to the equator
Living closer to the equator or at a higher elevation.
Gender
In Australia and New Zealand, melanoma is more common in men than in women.
Weakened immune system
From disease or side effects of medicines.
Remember any percentage of melanoma risk means you are at risk of melanoma. Prevention and early detection save lives!
“Jen’s baby was 10 days old when her doctor rang to tell her that she had stage 3 melanoma. Nine months later she noticed some lumps in her groin and found out she had stage 4 melanoma.”
