Health Tip: Are You at Risk for Melanoma?

Melanoma is a dangerous form of skin cancer. Knowing your risk factors may help prevent melanoma and detect it early.

The U.S. National Cancer Institute says risk factors for melanoma include:

• Significant exposure to sunlight's ultraviolet rays. Sunscreen can help prevent UV rays from damaging the skin.
• Use of tanning booths.
• Having had a severe, blistering sunburn.
• Living in an area where the sun is strongest.
• Having a personal or family history of skin cancer.
• Having 50 or more "common moles."
• Having very fair skin that burns easily.