What causes melanoma?

• Most melanomas are caused by exposure to UV radiation in sunlight
• Sun exposure, particularly severe sunburns during childhood and adolescence, gives a greater risk of melanoma later in life
• There is a greater risk of melanoma with occasional high doses of sun exposure  (eg on holiday ) than with more continuous sun exposure (eg daily work outdoors)
• There may be an increased risk of melanoma from the use of sunbeds or solaria, particularly if they are used before the age of 35 years