Summer is the time to worry about baby’s exposure to the sun, and some children are more at risk for skin cancer than others. Parents magazine and the American Academy for Dermatology have published these risk factors for skin cancer.
Family History – Melanoma runs in families about 10% of the time. Having an immediate family member who has experienced melanoma increases the risk factor by 50%.
Many Moles – Moles that are present at birth point to the highest risk factor. Even moles developed later in life indicate a great risk for melanoma.
Past Sunburns – Bad burns can mutate the genetic makeup of the skin and increase the risk for cancer.
Fair Skin, Light Hair – Low levels of skin pigment, or melanin, increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Redheads and blondes also have increased risk.
Southern Latitude or High Altitude – Living in a southern region or at a high altitude increases exposure to potentially dangerous UV radiation.
Outdoor Sports – Playing outdoor sports increases the amount of time spent outdoors. Also, many children playing outdoor sports don’t use sunscreen.
If your child has one or more of these risk factors, there’s even more reason to take precautions against excessive sun.