melanoma risk calculator - Aaron Graves, PhDude Replica

Estimate Your Melanoma Risk Index

Use this educational calculator to estimate a risk index (0–100) based on known melanoma-related factors. This is not a diagnosis.

Age

Skin type (Fitzpatrick)

Approximate number of moles on your body

Blistering sunburns before age 18

Indoor tanning sessions per year

Average midday outdoor hours per week (10am–4pm)

Sunscreen use on exposed skin (SPF 30+)

First-degree family history of melanoma Personal history of melanoma or atypical mole syndrome Weakened immune system (e.g., transplant meds, chronic immunosuppression) Live in a high UV index region most of the year

For medical decisions, please consult a dermatologist or qualified clinician.

How this melanoma risk calculator works

Melanoma risk depends on a mix of genetics, skin biology, and UV exposure over time. This calculator combines common risk contributors into a single score so you can better understand your baseline profile. It is designed for awareness and prevention planning, not diagnosis.

The score uses weighted inputs such as age, skin type, mole count, severe sunburn history, indoor tanning exposure, family history, and immune status. Protective behavior like regular sunscreen use can lower your index.

What factors matter most?

1) UV exposure history

Intermittent intense UV exposure and blistering sunburns (especially in childhood) are strongly associated with melanoma risk. Indoor tanning also contributes meaningful risk because it delivers concentrated UV radiation.

2) Skin phenotype and mole burden

People with fair skin, light eyes, freckles, and a tendency to burn may carry higher UV sensitivity. A higher number of moles (particularly atypical moles) is another important risk signal.

3) Personal and family medical history

A personal history of melanoma or a first-degree relative with melanoma increases concern and should prompt regular clinical skin checks. Immunosuppression may also increase skin cancer risk.

Understanding your result

Low (0–19): Lower relative risk profile today, but prevention still matters.
Moderate (20–39): Some meaningful risk factors are present.
Elevated (40–59): Multiple risk factors; prevention and skin surveillance are important.
High (60+): Strong risk profile; discuss personalized screening intervals with a dermatologist.

Remember: a low score does not guarantee safety, and a high score does not mean you currently have melanoma. Only a qualified clinician can diagnose skin cancer.

Prevention strategies that actually help

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), and reapply every 2 hours outdoors.
Wear sun-protective clothing, a wide-brim hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Seek shade, especially during peak UV hours.
Avoid indoor tanning entirely.
Perform monthly skin self-checks and track changing moles with photos.
Schedule routine dermatology exams if you have elevated risk factors.

Monthly self-check: the ABCDE rule

Watch for lesions with any of these signs:

A — Asymmetry: one half looks different from the other.
B — Border: irregular, blurred, or ragged edges.
C — Color: uneven shades (tan, brown, black, red, white, or blue).
D — Diameter: larger than 6 mm (though smaller lesions can still be melanoma).
E — Evolving: changing size, shape, color, or new symptoms like bleeding/itching.

When to see a doctor

Seek prompt clinical evaluation if you notice a new or changing mole, a sore that does not heal, spontaneous bleeding, or a lesion that looks distinctly different from your other moles (“the ugly duckling” sign). Early detection dramatically improves melanoma outcomes.

Important disclaimer

This melanoma risk calculator is an educational tool and not medical advice. It does not diagnose melanoma, estimate exact probability, or replace professional evaluation. If you are concerned about a skin lesion, contact a licensed healthcare professional.