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By: Tracey Herriot

It is a well known fact that Melanoma is one of the deadliest skin cancer. Melanoma is also the second most common cancer among females in the ages of 20-29. There are lifestyle factors and genetic contributors to skin cancer; more specifically Melanoma that increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Here are six factors to consider. If two or more of these apply to you, then it would be highly recommended to do monthly skin checks,and to see your dermatologist at least once a year.

1)If You are a Blonde or a Redhead
Melanin is a pigment that acts as an internal sunblock. People with lighter hair tend to have lower levels of melanin. Shades of almost white shades of hair to dark red shades of hair indicate that you have very low melanin.

2)If your Parent of Sybling had Melanoma
Melanoma is often carried through mutated genes. Your risk will become much higher if an extended family member has been diagnosed.

3)If you have had a blistering sunburn before age 20
Exposure to the sun during this age is likelier to cause DNA damage; this can trigger cancer to mutate later on in life. Burns are very damaging during this time because skin cells have a longer time to mutate before age 20. Just one blistering burn can raise your risk.

4)If you have a freckled back
Freckles can indicate a sign of excessive UV exposure and a susceptibility to sun damage. You have a higher risk of developing skin cancer if 20 percent or more of your upper back is covered with freckles. The freckles could be any shape, size, or colour; your risks are still increased. Even if your freckles tend to fade in the winter you are still at higher risk.

5)If You have developed a type of Precancer
Actinic keratoses is a precursor to cancer. Antinic keratoses can appear as sunspots or sandpaper-rough blemishes. These blemishes can range in colour and shape, but should still be checked out. Even if it has been removed your chances of skin cancer are still increased.

6)If you worked outside as a teenager
Working an outside job for three or more years even if you were wearing sunscreen can increase your risk. Because of all the hours you were a UV-ray target you increased your danger of developing skin cancer.