Guides for Patients >> Conquering Melanoma
SKIN CANCER
What Is Melanoma?
The most dangerous form of skin cancer, melanoma begins in a type of skin cell called a melanocyte. Melanocytes produce the skin pigment known as melanin, which is responsible for our natural skin color. When exposed to sunlight, these skin cells produce large amounts of melanin as part of the tanning process, helping to protect the skin from burning.
Pigmented markings of the skin are known as moles, which are groups of melanocytes in the skin. While moles are generally harmless, they can become cancerous.
A Problem on the Rise
Although melanoma accounts for only about five percent of all skin cancer cases, it causes 77 percent of all skin cancer-related deaths (Source: American Cancer Society). It accounts for five percent of all cancers in men and four percent of all cancers in women. The lifetime risk of developing melanoma has risen and continues to rise.
Who Is At Risk?
The main cause of melanoma is thought to be the sun, through exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. People with fair skin and who tend to sunburn easily -- especially those with red or blond hair -- may be at greatest risk because their skin cells have less melanin.
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Reducing Your Risk
Since melanoma is caused by the sun, it makes sense that people should try to avoid or protect themselves from the sun's harmful rays. This is especially important between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., when the sun's rays are the strongest.
Protect yourself by wearing wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Whenever you are outdoors for an extended period, us a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher on all exposed skin -- even in the winter -- and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Protect Your Children
Special sunscreens are available for babies and children under six years of age. Infants, children and teens who do get sunburned may not see the long-term damaging effects for many years. But recent studies suggest that one or more early blistering sunburns during childhood can be a major contributor to developing melanoma later in life.
Next Page >> HOW TO SPOT MELANOMA
This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of your physician. Consult your doctor regularly about matters concerning your health, particularly regarding symptoms that require diagnosis or immediate medical attention.