Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM: Differences in risk factors for melanoma between young adults (18-39 years) and middle-aged (40-60 years) are not well documented. In this study, we aimed to determine differences in risk factors and characteristics of melanoma between these groups. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective study is a review on 330 patients, including 250 middle-aged and 80 young adults, during the period 2006-2016 in the Tampere university hospital, in Finland. RESULTS: Forty-one per cent of middle-aged and 47% of young adults were defined as higher-risk patients. High nevus count was the most common host risk factor in both groups. Young were more likely to have a family history of melanoma. Middle-aged had more often excessive intermittent sun exposure and a history of sunburn. Host risk characteristics were less commonly associated with thicker melanomas. CONCLUSION: A high number of patients have host risk factors for melanoma. Several differences exist in risk factors and characteristics of melanomas between young adults and middle-aged patients.