There\u2019s no question that a primary trigger in developing skin cancer (and its most lethal form, melanoma) is unprotected exposure to the sun\u2019s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, there are some factors that can increase our susceptibility. Some of them are within our control, and, unfortunately, some of them are not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regardless, it\u2019s still vital to be aware of both, as knowing these risks are there will make us more likely to pay closer attention to our skin. Catching melanoma early enough can easily mean the difference between life and death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There\u2019s a famous old saying that applies so well to skin cancer, its\u2019 author could very well be referring specifically to it: Knowledge is power<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We\u2019re here to provide some of that knowledge today, with the hope that you\u2019ll help us spread it far and wide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Right up front, we\u2019d like to clarify a popular misconception that skin cancer is strictly a Caucasian disease. Believing that incorrect notion can turn out to be a huge mistake. Any human being of any ethnicity can develop melanoma.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With that said, melanoma does play favorites. Whites<\/em> have the greatest risk at about 1 in 44. In descending order, they\u2019re followed by Hispanics<\/em> (1 in 250), Native Americans<\/em> (1 in 350) Asians<\/em> (1 in 800) and Blacks<\/em> (1 in 1,100).<\/p>\n\n\n\n The following uncontrollable risk factors for melanoma are grouped together based on their amount of risk:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Characteristics that increase melanoma risk by a factor of 2-4:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Can\u2019t I Control Regarding Melanoma?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n