Melanoma is a severe type of skin cancer that occurs in the melanin-producing cells called melanocytes. The exact cause of this cancer is not known. However, it is believed that excessive exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can increase the risk of melanoma. In this article, we will talk about the potential causes of melanoma to better understand the condition and keep yourself protected.

Common causes of melanoma

1. Melanoma occurs in the melanocytes, i.e. the cells that produce melanin. Typically, these cells develop in a controlled way. The healthy cells push the old cells towards the skin surface where they eventually die. But when the DNA of the melanocytes changes, they may begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a mass of cancerous cells.

2. What exactly causes this change in the DNA is not very clear. Most researchers attribute it to be a combination of factors, including genetic and environmental factors.

3. Most doctors believe that too much exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays is among the leading causes of melanoma.

Risk factors for melanoma
The most common risk factors for melanoma are as follows.

1. Fair skin
People with fair skin complexion are at a greater risk. This is because they have less pigment or melanin in their skin, making them more prone to damage by UV radiation. So if you have fair skin and sunburn easily, you are more likely to develop melanoma than anyone with a darker complexion. Also, melanoma can develop in dark-skinned people of Hispanic origin.

2. A history of sunburn
This is often one of the important causes of melanoma. If you have had one or more severe episodes of sunburn, you are at a greater risk for melanoma cancer.

3. Living close to the equator or at a higher elevation
The sun’s rays are much more direct close to the earth’s equator. Similarly, these rays are powerful at higher altitudes. So, people living in these areas are much more exposed to UV radiation and have a greater risk of developing melanoma.

4. Having many moles on the skin
Having many moles on your body, typically more than 50, indicates that you are at a greater risk. Besides, having any unusual type of mole may also be one of the prime causes of melanoma in people.

5. A weakened immune system
People having a weak immune system may be more prone to melanoma and other types of cancers. Several surgeries or chronic conditions may suppress one’s immune system and impair its ability to fight diseases.

6. A family history of melanoma
If your parent, sibling, or child suffers from melanoma, you may stand a greater chance of developing this condition too.

These are some of the most significant risk factors and causes of melanoma. If you experience any symptoms or face any of the risks mentioned above, you must immediately talk to your healthcare expert.