Melanoma: What You Need to Know
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from the melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer because it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, and brain.
The risk of developing melanoma increases with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Other risk factors for melanoma include:
- Fair skin
- A family history of melanoma
- A personal history of skin cancer
- A large number of moles
- Moles that change in size, shape, or color
The best way to prevent melanoma is to avoid exposure to UV radiation. This can be done by:
- Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days
- Wearing protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, when you are outdoors
- Avoiding tanning beds
If you have any concerns about moles, see a doctor for a skin exam. Early detection and treatment of melanoma is essential for a good outcome.
Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma
The most common sign of melanoma is a new mole or a change in an existing mole. Melanomas can be any size, shape, or color, but they are often:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole is not the same as the other half.
- Border irregularity: The edges of the mole are not smooth.
- Color variation: The mole is not one solid color.
- Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimeters (the size of a pencil eraser).
If you notice any of these changes in a mole, see a doctor right away.
Treatment for Melanoma
The treatment for melanoma depends on the stage of the cancer. Early-stage melanoma is usually treated with surgery to remove the cancer. In some cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be used. Advanced-stage melanoma may be treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Outlook for Melanoma
The outlook for people with melanoma is good if the cancer is detected early and treated promptly. The 5-year survival rate for people with early-stage melanoma is over 90%. However, the survival rate decreases as the cancer progresses.
Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Melanoma
There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of developing melanoma, including:
- Avoid exposure to UV radiation.
- Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, when you are outdoors.
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Get regular skin exams from a doctor.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from this serious disease.
