A Possible Mechanical Risk for Melanoma of the Foot

Can walking or running increase the risk of the skin cancer melanoma on your feet?

A  recent study out of Japan suggests that repetitive mechanical stress and pressure on our feet might increase the risk of melanoma.  They found a higher number of cases of melanoma in areas of more pressure such as the heel and the ball of the foot and a lower number of cases in areas of less pressure such as the arch.  This was published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine.

This is a good reminder to inspect your feet during routine skin cancer exams.