Skin Cancer Risk Assessment (UV Exposure)

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the primary environmental risk factor. Both UVA and UVB rays from the sun and tanning beds cause DNA damage to skin cells, which can accumulate over time and lead to basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.

The Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale

Your skin’s natural melanin level determines how sensitive you are to UV damage. The Fitzpatrick scale classifies skin into six types:

• Type I: Very fair, always burns, never tans — highest risk
• Type II: Fair, burns easily, tans minimally — very high risk
• Type III: Medium, sometimes burns, gradually tans — moderate risk
• Type IV: Olive/light brown, rarely burns, tans easily — lower risk
• Type V: Brown, very rarely burns — low risk
• Type VI: Dark brown/black, almost never burns — lowest UV risk

Note that Fitzpatrick Type VI individuals still have meaningful skin cancer risk, particularly from non-UV-related factors and from cancers in less pigmented areas (palms, soles, under nails).

Cumulative UV Exposure

Skin cancer risk is cumulative — the damage builds up over a lifetime. A single severe sunburn, especially before age 18, significantly increases melanoma risk. Studies show that five or more blistering sunburns in youth doubles the lifetime risk of melanoma.

Protective Factors

Regular sunscreen use (SPF 30+), protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding peak UV hours (10 am – 4 pm) substantially reduce risk. Early and regular skin checks by a dermatologist allow pre-cancerous lesions to be treated before they progress.

This Tool

This calculator combines known risk factors into a scored assessment. It is educational only — not a diagnostic tool. Anyone with changing moles, new skin lesions, or a family history of melanoma should consult a dermatologist regardless of their score.