All About Melanoma Skin Cancer
Of the many cancers there are, skin cancer is the most common. In fact, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in every three cancers that are diagnosed is a skin cancer. As well, there’s a 1 in 5 chance of developing it at some stage in your life. There are Malignant and nonmalignant forms of this cancer with Melanoma being the most dangerous. It is necessary you are educated about this cancer.
Skin melanoma is the less prevalent. When melanocytes distort, the result can be possible skin cancer. The biggest risk is that the cancer metastasizes, which can increase change of illness and possible death. This cancer type is mainly caused by exposure to sunlight, which damages the melanocytes and may cause DNA cell alteration.
There are some things that heighten your chance of getting cancer as well. These include moles that don’t look normal, and, should they run in your family, they could be cancerous. Those will excessive sun exposure will have a higher risk of getting cancer. Also, according to the IARC report in 2009, your risk of having melanoma skin cancer is increased by 75% if you used tanning devices frequently before age 30. Genetics, such as skin fairness, and eye or hair colour can also be risk factors.
When trying to determine if you have melanoma, there are certain things to notice. That said, not every mole or spot is cancerous. Moles cancerous are identified using the following parameters.
• Asymmetry- one-half of the mole differs from the other half
• Border irregularity- the spot has uneven or notched borders
• Color-the mole has a different color from other moles or has various colors in an irregular pattern
• Diameter-the mole is bigger that the size of a pencil eraser
There are four types of melanoma. Superficial spreading is the most common and often starts as a normal mole, which eventually changes malignantly with uneven borders and color disparities. Blue or black lumps on the skin are often indicators of nodular cancer which is the fastest progressing. It’s usually found on your thigh region, trunk or upper arms. Located on the hands, feet and in the nails, acral melanoma is the third type. Elderly people are most likely to develop the last type, lentigo maligna, either on their face or surrounding their genitals.
Don’t wait to see your GP if anything looks out of the ordinary. To take care of your skin, limit your time in the sun and make sure the skin is protected.
This article #129 has been written by Internet New Zealand, Online Marketing specialists.