Personal History of Previous Melanoma

People with a past history of melanoma are at significantly increased risk for developing a second primary tumor some time after the original occurrence. At least 5% of persons who have had one melanoma will develop a subsequent, independent melanoma.¹

At particularly high risk are those individuals who, in addition to a previous melanoma, have dysplastic nevi or a family history of melanoma. Frequent skin examinations are strongly recommended for anyone who has had a previous melanoma.

Family History of Melanoma

About 10% of all people with melanoma have a family history of melanoma. You are at increased risk of developing melanoma if there is a family history of melanoma in one or more of your first-degree relatives (parent, brother or sister, or child). Depending on the number of affected relatives, the risk can be up to eight times greater than that in the general population.