Contents
Melanoma Risk Factors You Might Not Know About
Published: Apr 22, 2024
Knowing your risk factors for melanoma can help you take preventive measures. Let's explore some surprising factors that might affect your risk.
Age and Melanoma
Age plays a significant role in melanoma risk. Younger patients often have tumors with aggressive features but generally have a better prognosis. Conversely, older adults are more likely to have thicker, more aggressive tumors and a worse overall survival rate.
Sex and Melanoma
Female patients tend to have a better prognosis than males, even when considering other factors like tumor thickness and ulceration. Studies show that females have higher survival rates and are less likely to have ulcerated tumors.
Anatomic Location
The location of the primary tumor can affect prognosis. Tumors on the head and neck tend to have a worse prognosis compared to those on the extremities. However, the most critical factors remain tumor thickness and ulceration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, older adults often have more aggressive tumors and worse survival rates.
Females generally have a better prognosis and higher survival rates than males.
Yes, tumors on the head and neck generally have a worse prognosis.
Younger patients often have aggressive tumors but better survival outcomes.
Key Takeaways
Understanding your risk factors can help you take action to prevent melanoma.
References
- Balch CM, Soong SJ, Gershenwald JE, et al. Age as a prognostic factor in patients with localized melanoma and regional metastases. Ann Surg Oncol 2013; 20:3961.
- Joosse A, Collette S, Suciu S, et al. Superior outcome of women with stage I/II cutaneous melanoma: pooled analysis of four European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer phase III trials. J Clin Oncol 2012; 30:2240.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?