It has reached epidemic proportions, especially in the Southwest. Arizona, for example, has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the United States and the second highest rate of skin cancer in the world behind Queensland, Australia. Your Family History People with a family history of skin cancer have a greater risk of developing it themselves. Your Physical Characteristics People with fair skin and light blue or green eyes and those who have red or blonde hair and freckle easily have a greater risk of developing skin cancer. Your Environment People who live, work or play closer to the equator, at higher altitudes, and in locations with many dry, sunny days have a higher risk of sun exposure, sunburn and skin cancer.
Mountains have some of the most intense UV on Earth.
Also, the thinning of the Earth's protective ozone layer increases everyone's UV exposure. Preventing Skin and Eye Damage Even though you may not be able to control your skin type or where you live, you can control your ability to be safe in the sun. By reducing your sun exposure you can help prevent skin cancer. You and your family should be aware of the risks of too much sun exposure and adopt simple sun safety practices to prevent serious health problems. The UV index indicates the likely level of exposure to UV rays for a particular city on a given day.