Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Whether it's called malignant melanoma or simply melanoma, this cancer can metastasize (spread) rapidly. With early detection and proper treatment, melanoma has a high cure rate.
It develops when melanocytes (the cells that give skin, hair, and eyes color) are damaged, which causes these cells to grow uncontrollably.
Melanoma begins on the surface, but it can grow deep into the skin and beyond. It can reach the blood and lymphatic vessels, and from there it can spread through the body, causing a life-threatening condition
CAUSES
Most melanomas, however, develop in areas that have had exposure to the sun such as the upper back, torso, lower legs, head, and neck
RISK FACTORS
Research has shown that the following risk factors increase the probability of developing melanoma:
Fair, sun-sensitive skin that tans poorly or burns easily.
Red or blond hair, and blue or green eyes.
Having 50 to 100 or more moles.
Having unusual or irregular-looking moles that are typically larger in size (may be referred to as dysplastic or atypical moles).
History of sunburns or indoor tanning use.
Blood relatives (parents, children, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles) who have had melanoma.
Immune system weakness due to disease, organ transplant, or medication.
Had melanoma or another skin cancer.
50 years of age or older.
PROTECT YOURSELF
Avoid excessive sun exposure . It is one contributing factor, Makes sense to protect your skin. Here's how you can Be Sun SmartSM:
Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or more to all exposed skin. Broad-spectrum provides protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply approximately every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, where possible.
Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Protect children from sun exposure by playing in the shade, using protective clothing, and applying sunscreen.
Use extra caution near water, snow, and sand because they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that may include vitamin supplements. Don't seek the sun.
Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling.
Source:
http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/sun_malignant.html
