Anyone can develop a skin cancer and this risk increases with time and cumulative exposure. However, some people are more likely to do so than others and these include those who have:
- Fair skin that burns easily
- Light coloured eyes, e.g. blue, grey, or hazel
- Naturally fair blonde or red hair
- Numerous freckles
- An outdoor occupation and/or intense sun exposure at present or in the past*
- An outdoor pursuit such as surfing, cycling, gardening, etc.*
- Frequent use of artificial sun lamps and/or sunbeds
- Experienced sunburnt skin
- A history of skin cancer
- An organ transplant recipient
- A compromised immune system, e.g. those who have a blood disorder such as leukaemia, or those who are taking immunosuppressive medications
*Note: Without the use of sunscreen
Answered by Alex Kelleher, MD