Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. In an advanced stage it can cause severe illness and even death. Early diagnosis is extremely important, as is prevention.
Moles, brown spots and skin nodules are often innocent lesions – often but not always. Someone who has more than 100 moles is at a higher risk of developing melanoma. The first signs may appear on one or more of these moles. That’s why it’s so important to know your skin very well. Examine the skin of your entire body once a month and undergo a medical examination by a dermatologist once a year.
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. If it spreads (metastasizes) to internal organs, it can be life-threatening. However, at an early stage it is almost 100% curable.
FACTORS THAT AFFECT
- Heredity plays an important role in melanoma
- Sunburns and prolonged, unprotected exposure to the sun
HOW TO REDUCE THE RISK
- Since you can’t change your genetic makeup, you can protect yourself from the sun with clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sun protection with an SPF of 15 or higher. Seek shade and stay out of the sun as much as possible between 10 A.M. and 4 p.m.
- Protect your children!!!!! Childhood burns are very dangerous.
- Half of all melanoma patients have abnormally shaped atypical nevi (also called dysplastic nevi). Be careful not to skip the dermatological examination if you belong to a family with cases of melanoma, if you have atypical moles or if you have a history of melanoma. Children in families with melanoma should be screened by a doctor from age 10 or older.
- Visit your dermatologist immediately if you notice a change in your pre-existing mole or a new mole. Those of you who belong to high-risk groups, get checked at least once a year or according to the instructions of your dermatologist.