The dangers of skin cancer are well known, with most health experts pointing to sun exposure as the main cause.

However, what many people don’t realize is that the risk of melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, goes far beyond just spending too much time under the sun.

What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in the cells that produce pigment in the skin. It can appear as a new mole on the skin or an existing mole that changes in size, shape or color.

Melanoma can also appear on other parts of the body, including the eyes, mouth, and even under the toenails and fingernails.

Risk factors for melanoma

While sun exposure is a significant risk factor for melanoma, there are other factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing this type of skin cancer. These include:.

Family history of melanoma
Fair skin that burns easily
Use of tanning beds
Having many moles on the skin
Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic
Having a weakened immune system

Unseen dangers of melanoma

While sun exposure is a major risk factor for melanoma, many people don’t realize that they can develop the disease without ever stepping foot in the sun.

This is because melanoma can develop in areas of the body that are not exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, buttocks, and genitals.

In fact, a recent study found that nearly half of all melanoma cases in men occur on the back, which is often covered by clothing and not exposed to the sun.

In women, melanoma is most commonly found on the legs, which are frequently shaved and exposed to the sun but may also be caused by hormonal changes or genetics.

Prevention and early detection

The best way to prevent melanoma is to protect your skin from the sun. This includes wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats, and using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Avoiding tanning beds is also important, as they can increase your risk of developing melanoma by up to 75%.

Early detection is key when it comes to treating melanoma. Regular self-examinations of the skin can help you identify any changes in moles or new growths.

It’s also important to visit a dermatologist for regular skin cancer screenings, especially if you have any risk factors for developing melanoma.

Final thoughts

While sun exposure is a significant risk factor for melanoma, it’s important to remember that this type of skin cancer can develop in areas of the body that are not exposed to the sun.

Understanding the risk factors and taking preventative measures, such as protecting your skin from the sun and visiting a dermatologist for regular screenings, can help reduce your risk of developing melanoma and ensure early detection if the disease does occur.