Skin Cancer Risk Factors: Genetic and Other Factors
Genetic factors
The nevoid basal cell epithelioma syndrome is an inherited disorder in which patients develop numerous basal cell carcinoma from the second decade of life and that ultimately affect any area of the skin.
Xeroderma pigmentosum is an inherited disorder that is caused by an alteration in DNA repair, is also associated with the occurrence of multiple cutaneous carcinomas.
In cutaneous malignant melanoma has been described a familial predisposition. The estimated risk is 70% present in patients with neurocutaneous melanosis and different types of xeroderma pigmentosum, from 1% in children of patients with non-familial melanoma alone and 6% in families with dysplastic nevus syndrome and history of two or more malignant melanomas.
Those who have been treated with medicines that suppress their immune systems, are more likely to develop melanoma.
Overexposure to lamps and booths
Tanning lamps and booths are a source of ultraviolet radiation. Excessive exposure increases the risk of developing skin cancer.
Age
About half the number of cases of melanoma occur in people over 50 years.
Other factors
Exposure to carcinogens, trauma or scarring, radiation injuries and chronic viral infections are among the factors predisposing to skin cancer.