MELARIS - What Is Hereditary Melanoma

Understanding Hereditary Melanoma

When melanoma spreads untreated, it is the deadliest of all skin cancers. Over 62,000 cases of melanoma are diagnosed every year in the US. It is estimated that 10% of melanomas are associated with familial or inherited syndromes.

p16 mutations are the most common cause of inherited cancer risk in families with melanoma and pancreatic cancer. Anyone with the inherited gene mutation in the p16 is at higher than average risk for melanoma — up to 50% by age 50. Pancreatic cancer risk is also higher in p16 gene carriers — up to 17%. There is a 50% chance the p16 mutation will pass from a parent who carries the mutation to each child.

WHEN YOU KNOW...

...about an inherited p16 mutation you can take steps to reduce your risk of cancer, or help detect it an earlier, more treatable stage.

Risk of Developing Cancer With or Without p16 mutation (%)

Learn More About Hereditary Melanoma Genes

There are up to 30,000 different genes directing how your body’s cells work
p16 genes normally work to prevent cancer cell growth
Mutations in the p16 gene interfere with this process, allowing cancerous cells to grow
p16 mutations are the most common cause of inherited cancer risk in families with melanoma and pancreatic cancer

>> Genetic Testing