Skin Cancer | Melanoma

One of the most serious types of skin cancer is Melanoma.

When it comes to Cancer, Breast and Lung cancer often gets the most attention, however according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will get skin cancer in their lifetime. 

That's scary, especially for me because I'm someone that loves being outdoors.

In fact, there are more new cases of skin cancer than breast, prostate, lung or colon cancer combined.  But, it's a relief to konw that just as with any type of cancer, early detection and frequent self examinations could save your life, and it has.

Melanoma begins when the skin's pigment cells gradually become more abnormal and divide without control or order.

Melanoma can begin either in an existing mole or as a new growth on the skin. Risk factors relating to Melanoma are:

• Family history of melanoma   
• Having a history of melanoma  
• Weakened immune system  
• Many ordinary moles (more than 50)  
• Exposure to the un or Ultraviolet (UV) radiation  
• Severe, blistering sunburns   
• Freckles   
• Fair skin  

Detecting the Signs of Skin Cancer or Melanoma

It's become extremely important to avoid the sun as much as possible and examine your skin on a regular basis so as to detect skin cancer early.

As with most cancers, early detection is the best way to cure it.    

So, how do you know when you're looking at a mark that could be cancerous?

Here are a few pictures of melanoma that can help you detect the signs of skin cancer and the development of skin Melanoma.

These skin cancer photos should be used only as a guide to help detect a skin mark that looks suspicious. If you develop something that looks similar, it is recommended that you immediately check with your physician.

However I would recommend that any time you're not sure or have a suspicion, see your dermatologist.

Most skin cancers look ragged around the edges  Non cancerous spots generally have smooth edges. Also if the mole itches or is tender, this may be a sign of melanoma and should be checked out immediately.

Most skin cancers are asymmetrical, meaning they are ill-proportioned.  So, if you draw a line down the middle of the mole or mark on your skin, one side of the mole would not match the other side. 

Look for uneven color across the mole.  Pigmentation may very between brown, black or tan. this may mean cancer  In more advanced stages of melanoma, the most deadly type of skin cancer, shades of white, red or blue or gray may appear.

Most non-cancerous moles are small.  If the mole is more than 1/4 inch in diameter (about the size of a pea or a pencil eraser), then there is a greater chance that it is malignant.

How to Do a Skin Self-Examination for Skin Cancer?

Check your body from front to back in the mirror or have someone else check you. 

Check the undersides of your arms

The Palms of your hands

Look between your fingers

Check the back of your legs and feet.

Look between your toes, the soles of your feet

Examine the back of your neck and scalp. 

Check the tops of your ears.

Check your back and buttocks 

Be Fanatical about Using Sunscreen Products

When outdoors, summer or winter, always use sunscreen products that provide effective UV sun protection that safely aids in the prevention of sun-induced damage to the skin.

It's a good idea to use a UV Moisturizer with SPF of at least 30. 

 Do Tanning Beds Cause Skin Cancer?