Is Skin Cancer Genetic? Knowing Your Health History

We’re not going to give a long lecture about the importance of wearing sunscreen and being cautious when spending time outdoors. We know you’ve heard that message several times before–and with good reason.  Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., with 1 in 5 Americans estimated to develop this cancer in their lifetimes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

So, you take precautions. You limit your sun exposure (especially if you’re fair-skinned). You wear–and regularly reapply–sunscreen. You try to avoid certain times of the day. 

But is that enough? What if it runs in your family? Is skin cancer genetic?

“Many Triangle residents aren’t aware of how common skin cancer is, and how your genes can be a factor,” said Dr. Jones. “Melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, appears to be more common in those whose family members have had the disease. That’s why we regularly recommend skin cancer screenings and why that’s an important part of the regular wellness exams performed at Raleigh Medical Group. If you’re overdue for a physical or haven’t had a yearly skin cancer screening, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us. We want to be partners in your care.”

Let’s take a closer look at the genetic component of skin cancer and what you can do if it runs in your family. 

Is Skin Cancer Genetic?

Am I More Likely to Get Skin Cancer If It Runs in My Family?

Yes, there appears to be a genetic connection. In fact, 1 in every 10 patients with melanoma has another family member who has had this skin cancer.

But this alone doesn’t tell the entire story. To get a clearer picture of your risk, let’s explore the latest studies.

How Does Skin Cancer Run in The Family? 

A Brief Look at What Researchers Discovered

Almost 15% of melanomas are discovered in those with a family history of skin cancer. In addition, a portion of these patients have a gene that makes them more susceptible to the disease. The CDKN2A mutation appears to be primarily responsible for these hereditary melanoma cases.

CDKN2A is a gene that makes proteins that are involved in cell growth. However, it’s not the only susceptibility gene–more than eight have been discovered that can have an impact on skin cancer risk and development, according to a study published in the Journal of Cutaneous Pathology. 

Which Types of Skin Cancer Are Hereditary?

Is Skin Cancer Genetic? A Look at Various Cancers

The most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. All of these have hereditary qualities. While having a family history of skin cancer does not automatically mean you’ll get skin cancer, it means you have the genes that place you at a much higher risk.

Most often, skin cancer is primarily caused by sun exposure. 

Who Is Most at Risk for Skin Cancer?

How To Evaluate Your Risk Factors

Not sure if you’re at high risk for developing skin cancer? Answer the following questions:

• Do you have a light skin color or an ivory complexion?
• Do you burn easily? 
• Do you have blue or green eyes?
• Have you had five or more sunburns? (this doubles your risk of melanoma)
• Is your hair blond or red?
• Have you previously used tanning beds?
• Do you have a lot of moles?
• Do you have a family history of skin cancer?
• Have you had skin cancer before?

Those with lighter skin tone, eyes and hair are at greater risk for developing skin cancer. Likewise, it’s important to remember that a tan damages skin, and there’s no such thing as a “safe” tan. So if you regularly sunbathe or use tanning beds, you’ve placed yourself at greater risk. 

In addition, if you’re one of those who always gets a sunburn instead of a tan, it’s a good idea to schedule a skin cancer screening because you’re in a high-risk group. Those with a lot of moles or previous skin cancer should also be evaluated and take extra precautions when being in the sun. 

And as we answered earlier, “Is skin cancer genetic?’ it does have a strong genetic component that can increase your risk of developing it. 

What Age Is Skin Cancer Most Common?

After age 50, you’re much more likely to develop skin cancer. It’s most common in Americans in their 70s—but skin cancer can develop at any age, particularly if you have the risk factors listed above. 

Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening with Our Internal Medicine Physicians in Raleigh Today

How much sun exposure is too much? Is it when you get a sunburn? Is it when you go outside without sunscreen? Or does it depend upon your genetic makeup and your risk factors?

Don’t leave your health to mere guesswork. We invite you to experience the compassionate excellence that has made us the premier internal medicine doctors in Raleigh–and we’re accepting new patients. 

If you’ve never had a skin cancer screening, or if you’re overdue for one, just simply contact us for an appointment.