What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a dangerous type of skin cancer that occurs in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. While melanocytes are primarily found in the skin, they are also present in the bowel, eyes, and other parts of the body. However, the risk of developing melanoma in these areas is significantly lower compared to the skin.

Although melanoma is less common than other forms of skin cancer, it is the deadliest, accounting for approximately 75% of all skin cancer deaths. Each year, about 160,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed in the U.S. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light greatly increases the risk of developing melanoma.Regular skin checks by a dermatologist are crucial for detecting melanoma early. Dermatologists have the expertise to identify suspicious moles, lesions, or changes in the skin that might indicate melanoma. Equally important are self-exams, where individuals monitor their skin for any alterations in moles' shape, size, color, or the appearance of new spots.

Combining professional evaluations with self-examinations significantly increases the likelihood of early detection. Timely intervention greatly improves the chances of successful treatment and better outcomes for melanoma. This underscores the importance of regular checks by dermatologists and self-exams for maintaining overall skin health.

Symptoms of Melanoma

• Melanoma most often presents itself with the change of an existing mole, including change of symmetry, color, or shape.

• Irregular mole borders - scalloped, wavy, or notched.

• Diameter - anything new growing in size.

• Moles that itch, ooze or bleed.

• Melanoma can appear on normal skin tissue and does not always start as a mole.

What Causes Melanoma?

• Melanoma is primarily caused by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the skin.

• Melanoma is often triggered by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds.

• Genetic factors and a history of severe sunburns also contribute to the development of melanoma.

How to Prevent Melanoma

Melanoma prevention starts by using sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and getting regular skin checks by a dermatologist to detect and address potential issues early.