<p>JHS, I am so sorry for your family’s terrible loss. </p>
<p>Our dermatologist says that she is seeing a record number of cases of melanoma in young people. And yes, there is an increased risk within families. Environment and genetics can work together, so even if you have an older relative who has been diagnosed with this, it pays to be vigilant about screening and prevention. </p>
<p>They are making some progress on this in research, but not nearly fast enough. There was an excellent series of articles in the NY Times a few months ago: </p>
<p>[Target</a> Cancer - A Roller Coaster Chase for a Cure - Series - NYTimes.com](<a href=“http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/22/health/research/22trial.html]Target”>http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/22/health/research/22trial.html)</p>
<p>[Target</a> Cancer - After Long Fight, Melanoma Drug Gives Sudden Reprieve - Series - NYTimes.com](<a href=“http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/23/health/research/23trial.html]Target”>http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/23/health/research/23trial.html)</p>
<p>[Target</a> Cancer - A Drug Trial Cycle - Recovery, Relapse, Reinvention - Series - NYTimes.com](<a href=“http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/24/health/research/24trial.html]Target”>http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/24/health/research/24trial.html)</p>