With the summer sun at its strongest, let's revisit skin cancer risk and prevention. The three main types are: basal cell, squamous cell and melanomas, the least common but most deadly. The risk factors:
History. If you've had a skin cancer diagnosed before (even if it was basal cell or squamous cell), you're at an increased risk for melanoma. If your mother, father or a sibling had a melanoma, your risk is higher.
Moles or freckles. If you have lots of them (especially if they're large), you may be at increased risk.
Cell type. If you've ever had a “precancerous” mole removed and the pathology report showed a dysplastic nevus, you're at increased risk.
Fair complexion. Fair-skinned folks don't enjoy the same protection from the sun as do those with dark or olive skin.
Geography. Those who live in sunnier climes (Florida vs. Michigan) are at increased risk.
Sunburn. Even a single high-intensity sunburn — one bad enough to cause blisters — will increase your risk.
Weak immune system. The body's immune system helps ward off cancers. If it's compromised, so is its ability to protect you from melanomas.
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