Reducing your risk of certain cancers requires learning what causes them. While UV ray exposure is the main skin cancer risk factor, dermatologists also stress the role genetics play. Learn more about the connection between genetics and skin cancer here, and what you can do to protect yourself if your risk is higher. 

How Do Melanoma and Genetics Relate?

The genetic factor is most prevalent in melanoma, or the skin cancer that affects the melanocytes. These cells produce melanin, or the pigment that colors the skin. Mutations in the MC1R gene responsible for fair skin and red hair have been identified as melanoma risks, as is the CDKN2A, or p16 gene. Mutations in this, as well as the TERT and MITF genes, increase the risk of this specific skin cancer. CDKN2A is identified as the “tumor suppressor gene,” with mutations in this gene present in 40% of family-based melanoma cases. 

Other types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinomas, are associated with UV exposure, as opposed to UV and genetic factors. While the risk of melanoma increases if a family member has it, that risk is based on the immediacy of the individual. An immediate family member with the disease naturally increases the risk more than an extended family member. 

How Can You Reduce Your Risk?

If anyone in your family had melanoma, there are many steps you can take to mitigate your risk. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen year-round that protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays is essential, as both rays are associated with skin cancer. It also helps to wear large, broad-spectrum sunglasses any time you are outdoors, as well as a broad-brimmed hat. If the weather allows it, wear light-colored clothing that covers most of your body. Light colors do not absorb UV rays, unlike dark hues. 

Additional preventive measures include scheduling routine checkups with the local dermatologist. Any warning signs, such as irregularly shaped, bleeding, or discolored moles, are dealt with via removal and cancer testing. It’s also important to reduce UV exposure when the sun is at its peak, or between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Refrain from using tanning beds as well, since they require close-up exposure to UV rays. 

For skin cancer checkups, make appointments with Heibel Dermatology Clinic LLC. This renowned clinic, led by experienced dermatologist Mark D. Heibel, features convenient locations in Columbus and Lincoln, OH, and offers a full suite of skin care services. Call (402) 488-6969 today to schedule your appointment or visit the dermatologist online for service information, including skin cancer removal. Like the Facebook page for more tips.