Men who take Viagra to improve their sexual functioning and enhance their life often have no idea that, at the same time, they can be putting another aspect of their health at risk.

In 2014, a study published in JAMA, the Journal of the American Medical Association, that found that Viagra users had a significantly increased risk of developing a serious type of skin cancer called melanoma.

The Viagra skin cancer study looked at more than 25,000 men over a ten year period from 2000 to 2010 and found that 3,500 cases of skin cancer were reported.

The results of the study revealed that patients who were taking Viagra to treat erectile dysfunction had an increased risk of developing melanoma of 84% versus those who did not take the drug.

While the research study was not designed to indicate a direct causal link, it did report an association and indicated that further research needed to be conducted.

However, development of melanoma following Viagra use has been reported by patients, and patients using the drug or considering its use should speak to their doctor about their concerns and risks of developing melanoma.

What is Melanoma Skin Cancer?

Melanoma skin cancer is one of three types of skin cancer and is the most dangerous of the three. The other two types, basal cell skin cancer and squamous cell skin cancer, are less invasive and are more responsive to treatment interventions.

Melanoma skin cancer is seen in about 76,000 new cases per year and approximately 10,000 individuals die from melanoma skin cancer in the U.S. annually. Although it is the least common, it is the most dangerous.

Melanoma skin cancers usually starts out as a mole that begins to itch, or is painful to the touch. Lesions will then grow that become thick. Many times the moles are dark brown or black.

Melanoma skin cancer often develops on the chest or back for men and on the legs in women, and is also commonly seen in the face and neck.

In its early stages, melanoma is often curable, However, it is more likely than the other two types of skin cancers to spread to other parts of the body and may go unnoticed until it has progressed to a more advanced stage.

While it is not known for sure, it is suspected that the effects of Viagra target the same genetic pathway that is also responsible for the development of melanoma.

Filing a Lawsuit over Side Effects of Viagra

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer following the use of Viagra, you may be able to receive legal compensation.

Patients and their families are continuing to file Viagra lawsuits against Pfizer for their alleged failure to warn patients that melanoma is a potential side effect of the medication. Many patients allege that if they had been adequately warned about the possibility of developing melanoma skin cancer, they would not have chosen to take Viagra.

An attorney experienced in Viagra melanoma cases can review your case at no cost to you and can help you decide if filing a lawsuit is right for you.