Contribution of family history of melanoma to associated risk factors: Analysis of an Internet-based risk assessment tool.

Abstract

10546 Background: Risk factors for melanoma (ML) include UV exposure, sunburns, multiple nevi, and fair skin. Smoking and alcohol use may also play a role. Demographics associated with increased UV exposure include male gender, white race, age 18-29, and high-income. Those with family history (FH) of ML have increased risk of developing ML themselves yet are often unaware or do not engage in preventive behaviors. We sought to understand the association between FH of ML and other personal risk factors for cancer. Methods: Since 2009, voluntary participants could receive personalized information regarding their cancer risk via the OncoLink.org Reduce My Risk tool. Survey data was collected on demographics, FH, risk-factors, and risk-associated behaviors. Use of data was IRB approved. Differences between respondents with v. without FH of ML were analyzed using chi-square test and adjusted via logistic regression. Results: 25255 responses were analyzed; 1928 (7.6%) had FH of ML. Of these, median age was 26 (range 18-75), 73.1% were female, 88.6% from North America, 91.4% White, 78.2% had at least some college, and 62.0% household income > $45,000. Comparing those with FH of ML to those without, no significant differences were observed in education, income, or home setting. Those with a FH of ML were less likely to be “light” smokers ( < 1 pack per day) but were more likely to be both “light” drinkers and “heavy” drinkers (Table). There were no significant differences in BMI or exercise habits. Those with FH of ML were more likely to sunbathe, to have had “blistering” sunburns, have 50+ moles, show signs of sun damage on their skin, and have dysplastic nevi (Table). There were no differences in use of indoor tanning beds (Table). Conclusions: Those with a FH of ML were more likely to sunbathe and to report skin damage and history of blistering sunburns; they were more likely to use tanning beds, though not statistically significant. These behaviors are modifiable and may suggest parental influence on sun-protective behaviors. Those with FH also reported increased non-modifiable risks. Future work should continue to explore targeted intervention for those with a FH of ML to educate on risk and promote sun-protective behaviors.[Table: see text]