Who is Most at Risk for Skin Cancer?

Everyone is at risk for developing skin cancer. However, there are certain characteristics that make people more at risk for developing skin cancer.

Who is More at Risk for Skin Cancer

• people with freckles
  
• those with fair skin tones
  
• those who burn easily
  
• people with light colored eyes, like green and blue eyes
  
• people with naturally red or blonde hair
  
• people who spend a lot of time outdoors
  
• people who have a family history of skin cancer or melanoma
  

Keep in mind that everyone is at risk for skin cancer, even those with darker complexions like African Americans and people of Hispanic/Latin origin. Although their risk of developing skin cancer isn't as high as fair skinned people, they are especially at risk for melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer.

How Can People Most At Risk Protect Themselves from the Sun

Use Sunscreen. I know you have heard it a million times, but sunscreen really is your best bet to prevent skin cancer if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Choose a sunscreen that is at least SPF 15 or higher. Sunscreen should be worn daily.

Avoid direct exposure to midday sun. Basically, this means do not go outdoors when the sun's rays are at its brightest, which is 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Stay shady. Staying in the shade not only will keep you cooler, it will reduce your risk of skin cancer. Stay out of the sun's harmful rays.

Wear protective clothing. Clothing like a wide brimmed hat or sunglasses are a good start to prevent skin cancer. The glasses will protect your eyes and eyelids, while the hat will protect your face. Try to cover areas of the skin that will be exposed to the sun.

Source:

U.S. FDA, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Q &A: Who is at Most Risk for Skin Cancer?

Skin Cancer Foundation. AFRICAN AMERICANS WHO DEVELOP MELANOMA HAVE A WORSE PROGNOSIS THAN WHITES; August 17, 2001