The Importance of Early Detection and Prevention of Atypical Skin Lesions and Other Melanoma Risk Factors in a Younger Population.

Simple Summary: Although melanoma is much less common than other skin cancers, it has a higher mortality rate and is responsible for almost 73% of skin cancer-related deaths. Dysplastic nevus (DN) is known as a key factor contributing to the development of cutaneous melanoma. Early detection and monitoring are crucial for individuals with atypical nevi. This study's aim was to investigate the role of selected risk factors in the incidence of skin cancers and the stage of advancement at diagnosis. Our study involved a group of younger people and highlighted several key factors influencing the occurrence of atypical skin lesions. However, it also focuses attention on the significant correlation between the occurrence of atypical lesions and various clinical and demographic factors in this age group. Our findings underscore the necessity for targeted prevention strategies and regular dermatologic screening, particularly for the high-risk groups identified in this study. Background/Objectives: Skin cancer is becoming increasingly common due to increasing risk factors such as excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation, genetic predisposition, fair skin, and a history of sunburn. Melanoma accounts for only 1% of cases but causes most skin cancer deaths. Dysplastic nevi (DN) are important precursors of melanoma. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of these risk factors on the incidence and stage of skin cancer. Methods: The study included 591 patients aged 18 to 64 who visited the Department of Dermatology and Venereology in 2022–2023 for skin examinations. Each patient completed a questionnaire regarding the risk factors for melanoma and atypical melanocytic nevi and then underwent a dermatoscopic examination of the whole body using a digital videodermatoscope. Results: Dermatoscopic examination revealed a lesion suggestive of melanoma in 1.69% of the patients. Risk factors for developing melanoma included male gender, family history of melanoma, number of skin moles, sunburn in childhood, sun-dependent hobby, using a tanning bed, using low sun protection factor (SPF) cream, not avoiding sun exposure, and co-occurrence of actinic keratosis. Conclusions: Risk factors for melanoma and dysplastic nevi are still common among patients, but the situation has been improving over the years. Early intervention and education on sun safety can play pivotal roles in reducing the incidence of atypical moles and potentially preventing malignant transformations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]