Is Skin Cancer Genetic?
Is Skin Cancer Genetic?
Genetics determine
everything from your eye color and height to the types of food you like to eat.
In addition to these characteristics that make you who you are, genetics can
unfortunately also play a role in many types of diseases, including skin cancer.
While it’s true that environmental factors like sun exposure are the main
culprits, genetics may also be a risk factor for developing skin cancer.
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, about 10
percent of all people who are diagnosed with melanoma have a family member who
has had melanoma at some point in their lifetime.
The combination of unusual moles and a family
history of skin cancer is known as familial atypical multiple mole melanoma
syndrome (FAMMM).
Precautions:
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. This means the sunscreen has the ability to block both UVA and UVB rays.
- Use sunscreen with a high SPF. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Limit your exposure to direct sunlight. Stay in the shade if you’re outdoors, especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun’s UV rays are strongest.
- Cover up. Clothes can provide protection from the damaging rays of the sun. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing that allows your skin to breathe.
- Get regular skin check-ups. Get your skin screened every year by your doctor or dermatologist. Let your doctor know if you have a family history of melanoma or other skin cancers.
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