Melanoma is the most severe type of skin cancer that caught early can be successfully treated. Melanoma is mainly caused by UV exposure either from sun exposure or tanning beds that attacks damaged cells. This isn’t the most common form of skin cancer, but it is the most fatal if left untreated.
The easiest way to prevent melanoma and other skin cancers, is protect yourself with shade during high sun times (10am to 4pm). Use sunscreen, a broad spectrum SPF with both UVA/UVB protection. Avoid tanning beds, UV tanning booths, and getting sunburns. Cover up your skin, wear loose light colored clothing when outside and examine your own skin and moles.
The ABCDE’s of Skin Cancer
A: Asymmetry, if you draw a line through the mole, the two halves will not match.
B: Border, the border of the mole is uneven and ridged.
C: Color, variety of different colors throughout the mole including blues, reds, browns, blacks, and tans.
D: Diameter, melanomas are usually larger than the end of an eraser. If caught early, the size may appear smaller.
E: Evolving, any mole that may change size, shape, color, may start itching, bleeding, or crusting should be looked at by a dermatologist.
