Melanoma

What is Malenoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in the cells that produce the pigment melanin. It is the most serious type of skin cancer and is often seen in fair-skinned people, but can occur in people of any skin color. The most dangerous form of melanoma can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening if not caught and treated early.

Signs and Symptoms of Melanoma

Early warning signs of melanoma include:

Mole that is asymmetrical
Mole that has an irregular border
Mole that has changes in color
Mole that is larger than the circumference of a pencil eraser
Mole that is itchy, painful, or tender
Mole that has bleeding or oozing
Darker patches of skin that are not the same color as the surrounding skin

If you have any of these signs or symptoms, you should see your doctor right away. Your doctor may perform a biopsy to check for skin cancer, but only a definitive diagnosis can rule out melanoma.

Risk Factors for Melanoma

There are several factors that may increase your risk of developing melanoma. These include:

Having fair skin and blond or red hair
Having family members with melanoma
Having a weakened immune system
Having had one or more blistering sunburns
Having numerous moles or atypical moles
Excessive lifetime sun exposure
Living in a geographic area with higher ultraviolet Radiation exposure

Preventing Melanoma

The best way to prevent melanoma is to be aware of your skin and recognize any changes that may signal a potential problem. It’s also important to practice safe sun habits and protect your skin from UV exposure. These include:

Seeking shade, especially during peak sunlight hours – between 10am and 4pm
Wearing protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and wraparound sunglasses
Wearing sunscreen with sun-protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
Avoiding indoor tanning

If you notice any changes to your skin, it’s important to see your doctor right away. Early detection of melanoma is the key to successful treatment.