Prenatal risk factors for cutaneous malignant melanoma: follow-up of 2,594,783 Danes born from 1950 to 2002

Abstract

The incidence of cutaneous malignant melanoma has increased in young adults, specifically in Denmark. In this study, we examined the risk of cutaneous malignant melanoma in relation to prenatal markers of hormone levels and to family-related risk factors. The study was based on a follow-up of 2,594,783 Danes born from 1950 to 2002. Occurrence of possible hormone-related cancers among family members and indicators of abnormal prenatal hormone levels were not associated with cutaneous malignant melanoma risk, whereas family size and mother's age at first birth were significant risk factors for cutaneous malignant melanoma in offspring.