Skin Cancer - Melanoma
Melanoma skin cancer information such as how many people get melanoma, what is melanoma, risk factors of melanoma and screening recommendations.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer. Melanoma skin cancer accounts for less than 5% of all skin cancer cases, but causes most skin cancer deaths. It is estimated that there will be 68,720 new cases of melanoma and 8,650 people will die of melanoma in the year 2009 in the United States. The skin is the largest organ in the body and covers/protects the organs inside the body. It also protects against germs and prevents fluid loss. The skin has three layers which include the epidermis, dermis and subcutis. Melanoma is a cancer that begins in the melanocytes cells in the epidermis (top layer). Since these cells produce melanin (tan or brown color to the skin to protect the body from the sun), melanoma tumors are often brown or black.
Melanoma Risk Factors
Certain risk factors increase a person's chance of getting the disease. This does not mean the person will get the disease nor does it mean people without specific risk factors will not get the disease. It only means there is an increased chance.
Melanoma Risk Factors:
- Sunlight (UV Radiation)
- Moles
- Fair Skin
- Family History
- Immune Suppression
- UV Radiation
- Age
- Gender
- Xeroderma Pigmentosum (inherited condition)
- Past History of Melanoma
Melanoma Screening Recommendations
Melanoma can be found early and early detection leads to a high cure rate. It is recommended to check your own skin about once a month. You should know the pattern of moles, freckles and other marks on your skin so that you will notice any changes. Self-exam is best done in front of a full-length mirror and a hand-held mirror for hard to see areas. A family member can check areas that are difficult to see. Any spots on the skin that change in size, shape or color should be seen by a doctor. You can also prevent skin cancer by avoiding intense sunlight too long. Practice sun safety by seeking shade, cover up with a shirt and hat, use sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher (remember to apply often and apply 20-30 minutes before going outside), wear sunglasses and do not use tanning beds or sun lamps.
Information gathered 10-21-04. Revision and statistics revised on 5-20-09.