Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year.

While many people understand the importance of protecting their skin from the sun, there are also several hidden risk factors that can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. In this infographic, you will learn about some of the lesser-known risk factors for skin cancer, and what you can do to protect yourself.

1. Fair Skin

One of the most well-known risk factors for skin cancer is fair skin. People with fair skin have less of the pigment melanin, which provides some protection against the harmful effects of the sun.

As a result, people with fair skin are more susceptible to skin damage from UV radiation, and are more likely to develop skin cancer. If you have fair skin, be sure to take extra precautions when spending time in the sun, such as wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen.

2. Family History of Skin Cancer

If someone in your immediate family has been diagnosed with skin cancer, you are at a higher risk of developing the disease yourself. This is because certain types of skin cancer can be caused by inherited genetic mutations.

If you have a family history of skin cancer, it is important to be vigilant about protecting your skin and getting regular skin exams.

3. Weakened Immune System

If you have a weakened immune system, either due to a medical condition or medication, you may be more susceptible to developing skin cancer.

This is because the immune system plays a crucial role in detecting and destroying abnormal cells, including cancer cells. If your immune system is not functioning properly, it may be less effective at identifying and fighting cancer cells. If you have a weakened immune system, it is important to talk to your doctor about management and prevention strategies.

4. Exposure to Certain Chemicals

Exposure to certain chemicals, both in the workplace and at home, can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Some of the most common chemicals associated with skin cancer include arsenic, coal tar, and certain types of oil.

If you work with these chemicals, be sure to take proper precautions to minimize your exposure, such as wearing protective clothing and using proper ventilation. If you are exposed to these chemicals at home, be sure to follow appropriate safety guidelines.

5. Smoking

While smoking is primarily associated with lung cancer, it can also increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

This is because smoking can weaken the immune system and damage DNA, making it more difficult for the body to detect and fight cancer cells. If you are a smoker, quitting is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer, as well as other types of cancer.

6. Using Tanning Beds

Tanning beds use UV radiation to darken the skin, which can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. In fact, using a tanning bed just once can increase your risk of developing skin cancer by up to 20%.

If you want to achieve a tanned look, consider using self-tanning products instead, which do not damage the skin.

7. Previous Sunburns

If you have had multiple sunburns in the past, you may be at a higher risk of developing skin cancer. This is because sunburns can damage the DNA in skin cells, making them more likely to become cancerous.

If you have had sunburns in the past, be sure to take extra precautions when spending time in the sun, such as wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen.

8. Age

As we age, our skin becomes less able to repair itself from damage caused by the sun and other factors. This means that older adults are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

If you are over the age of 50, it is especially important to be vigilant about protecting your skin and getting regular skin exams.

9. Certain Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions, such as xeroderma pigmentosum and basal cell nevus syndrome, can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

These conditions are rare, but if you have been diagnosed with a medical condition that increases your risk of skin cancer, it is important to work closely with your doctor to manage your risk.

10. Living in Certain Areas

Finally, your geography can also play a role in your risk of developing skin cancer. People who live in areas with high levels of UV radiation, such as those close to the equator or at high elevations, are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

If you live in one of these areas, be sure to take extra precautions when spending time in the sun.

Conclusion

While many people are aware of the importance of protecting their skin from the sun, there are also several lesser-known risk factors for skin cancer.

By understanding these risk factors and taking steps to protect yourself, you can help reduce your risk of developing this potentially deadly disease.