Who is most at risk for skin cancer in Australia?

Over 9% of melanoma cases are diagnosed in people aged under 40 years old, 11% in those aged 40-49, 18% in those aged 50-59, 25% in those aged 60-69, 20% in those aged 70-79 and 16% are aged 80 and over. (AIHW- Skin cancer in Australia 2016).

What risk factor is the most common cause of skin cancers?

Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is thought to be the major risk factor for most skin cancers. Sunlight is the main source of UV rays. Tanning beds are another source of UV rays.

What are the 5 risk factors of skin cancer?

What Are the Risk Factors for Skin Cancer?

  • A lighter natural skin color.
  • Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun.
  • Blue or green eyes.
  • Blond or red hair.
  • Certain types and a large number of moles.
  • A family history of skin cancer.
  • A personal history of skin cancer.
  • Older age.

What factors contribute to Australia having a very high rate of melanoma?

Basically, through migration, our two countries have been populated by many people with fair skin whose ancestors come from much less sunny climates. Lack of protective pigmentation leaves skin cells especially vulnerable to the DNA-damaging rays from the sun.

What are the 2 groups at a higher risk of skin cancer?

A fair skin type and skin colour Some people are at higher risk of skin cancer because they have a skin type that is more sensitive to UV damage. People with light-coloured eyes and red or fair hair also have an increased risk of melanoma, compared to people with darker hair and eyes.

What are the main causes of skin cancer?

Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. To lower your risk of getting skin cancer, you can protect your skin from UV rays from the sun and from artificial sources like tanning beds and sunlamps.

What causes skin cancers?

Who is most at risk for melanoma?

Melanoma is more likely to occur in older people, but it is also found in younger people. In fact, melanoma is one of the most common cancers in people younger than 30 (especially younger women). Melanoma that runs in families may occur at a younger age.

How common is skin cancer in Australia?

Two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. About 2,000 Australians die from skin cancer each year. Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.

What are the biggest risk factors for melanoma?

Factors that may increase your risk of melanoma include:

  • Fair skin.
  • A history of sunburn.
  • Excessive ultraviolet (UV) light exposure.
  • Living closer to the equator or at a higher elevation.
  • Having many moles or unusual moles.
  • A family history of melanoma.
  • Weakened immune system.

What is a risk factor for melanoma?

Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is a major risk factor for most melanomas. Sunlight is the main source of UV rays. Tanning beds and sun lamps are also sources of UV rays.

What is the risk of developing skin cancer?

Excessive sun exposure. Anyone who spends considerable time in the sun may develop skin cancer, especially if the skin isn’t protected by sunscreen or clothing. Tanning, including exposure to tanning lamps and beds, also puts you at risk. A tan is your skin’s injury response to excessive UV radiation.