Individuals with fair skin who have sustained multiple sunburns over their lifetimes face a higher likelihood of developing melanoma. Research shared by Igor Utyashev, an oncologist and candidate of medical sciences who leads the melanoma, skin tumors, and sarcomas team at the Institute of Oncology, a branch of the Hadassah Israeli clinic in Skolkovo, highlights this concern.
According to the expert, the first group at elevated risk includes people with a family history of melanoma, meaning one or more relatives who have had the disease.
The second risk group comprises individuals with light skin tones, specifically those falling into Fitzpatrick phototypes I and II. Melanoma occurs most frequently in these populations, a pattern that mirrors common skin types in Russia. Light skin offers less natural protection against ultraviolet radiation because it contains minimal melanin, the pigment that shields skin cells from sun damage. People in this category tend to burn easily and redden quickly when exposed to sun, notes the specialist.
A third at‑risk category includes patients who must use immunosuppressive medications for medical reasons.
Additionally, anyone who has experienced several sunburns over their life is at higher risk. The oncologist emphasized that even one or two sunburns in childhood can serve as a demonstrated risk factor for melanoma and other skin cancers in adulthood.
Exposure to tanning beds or solariums also raises melanoma risk, because the intensity of ultraviolet radiation cannot be accurately controlled by the client. In many cases, the only information available to the operator is the duration of exposure, which may lead to unintentional overexposure. Phototype awareness and skin health history are often overlooked by salon staff, increasing the likelihood of burns and subsequent cancer risk.
Another at‑risk group includes individuals with congenital nevi that cover large portions of the body, such as the limbs or face. While these birthmarks themselves are not necessarily dangerous, they can be associated with a higher chance of melanoma. People with extensive or numerous birthmarks should remain vigilant throughout life, monitoring for any nodules, changes in color, or the development of scars on these birthmarks. If such changes occur, seeking evaluation from an oncologist promptly is advised.
Moreover, having more than a certain number of moles—commonly over 50 or 100 across the body—places a person in a higher risk category. In such cases, regular examinations by a dermatologist, an oncodermatologist, or a general practitioner with expertise in recognizing skin tumors are recommended at least once a year.
Prevention and early detection strategies remain essential. Routine skin checks, sun protection measures, and prudent use of sunbeds contribute to reducing risk. Individuals should be especially mindful of family history, skin type, cumulative sun exposure, and the presence of atypical moles, and consult healthcare professionals if there are any suspicious changes. The goal is to identify melanoma early when treatment is most effective.
In summary, melanoma risk is shaped by a combination of genetic predisposition, skin phototype, prior sunburns, immunosuppressive therapy, congenital nevi, and the total burden of moles. Awareness and proactive screening can significantly improve outcomes for those in high‑risk groups.
Health professionals emphasize practical steps: minimize peak‑hour sun exposure, wear protective clothing, apply broad‑spectrum sunscreen, avoid tanning devices, and perform regular self‑checks alongside professional skin evaluations. This approach helps individuals take control of their skin health and reduce the chances of melanoma developing later in life.