While it feels good to soak up some sunshine, excessive sun exposure can have serious consequences, including melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer.
Although it accounts for only about 1% of skin cancer cases, melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. This is because, unlike other skin cancers, it has a higher tendency to spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body if not detected early.
This characteristic makes melanoma much more serious than other skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are typically less aggressive. This is why it is important to recognize the signs of melanoma early and get timely treatment.
At RGCC, we offer advanced diagnostic tools for the early detection of all types of cancer, including skin cancers.
Melanoma develops in the cells that produce melanin (melanocytes) - the pigment that gives your skin its color. Unlike a simple sunburn, melanoma is a serious condition where these cells grow uncontrollably and can spread to other parts of the body.
It is common knowledge that the sun is essential for vitamin D production in your body. However, it is important to guard against excessive exposure to its harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Excessive exposure to UV rays is the primary cause of the development of melanoma. These rays penetrate the skin, damaging DNA within melanocytes. Over time, this damage can accumulate, leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
Tanning beds and sun lamps also increase your risk of developing melanoma.
Melanoma typically begins in the skin, but it can also develop in other parts of the body, such as the eyes (ocular melanoma) and, more rarely, in the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and other areas (mucosal melanoma).
This type of skin cancer isn't confined to sun-exposed areas. While it frequently appears on the back, legs, arms, and face, it can also develop on less obvious spots like the palms, soles, under the nails, and even inside the mouth or nose. This adaptability can make early detection a challenge.
Melanoma isn't a one-size-fits-all disease. There are several types, each with its unique characteristics.
Melanoma can develop due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and personal factors.
- Genetic factors: Family history plays a significant role in melanoma risk. Inherited gene mutations can increase susceptibility, making regular skin checks crucial for those with a family history of the disease.
- Environmental factors: UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds is the leading cause of melanoma. Prolonged or intense exposure to UV rays can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to the development of cancerous growths.
- Personal factors: Your skin type can also affect your risk level. People with fair skin, light-colored eyes, and hair are more prone to melanoma. Additionally, having a large number of moles or atypical moles increases your risk.
One of the key factors that make melanoma so dangerous is its ability to spread quickly to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, or brain. Once melanoma has metastasized, it becomes much more difficult to treat, and the prognosis is often less favorable.
Early detection is critical in improving survival rates for melanoma. When caught in its earliest stages, melanoma is almost always curable with surgery. The key to early detection lies in understanding the risk factors, recognizing the early signs, and regularly checking your skin for any changes.
Early detection of melanoma is vital. The disease often shows up as a change in an existing mole or the appearance of a new, unusual-looking growth on the skin.
ABCDEs of melanoma detection
Melanoma can vary in appearance, especially in people with darker skin tones. It’s essential to seek a professional evaluation if you notice any unusual changes. Here’s what to watch for:
Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
Color: The mole has a variety of colors, such as different shades of brown, black, or even patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
Diameter: The spot is larger than 6mm across (about the size of a pencil eraser).
Evolving: The mole changes in size, shape, or color over time.
At RGCC, we offer advanced diagnostic tools to empower you in your skin health journey. Unlike traditional biopsies, our non-invasive liquid biopsies can provide valuable insights into the potential presence of melanoma and guide your next steps.
Prevention is the best defense against melanoma. Here are some actionable tips to reduce your risk:
- Always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30, seek shade during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
- Avoid tanning beds because they expose your skin to harmful UV rays that significantly increase your risk of developing melanoma.
- Perform monthly self-examinations of your skin to detect any changes early. Visit a dermatologist annually for a professional skin check, especially if you have risk factors.
Discover groundbreaking testing solutions pioneered by RGCC, which enable better cancer detection and care. Advances in personalized medicine, coupled with attentive follow-up and tailored interventions, empower us in the effort to reduce the impact of cancers like melanoma.
Our state-of-the-art research centers employ advanced tests and protocols to offer a comprehensive yet personalized view of each patient’s genetics, physiology, and immune profiles. We offer a paradigm shift in cancer care technology and protocols.
Our mission is to empower patients with unique insights into their cancer biology, guiding them toward success in their cancer journey.
Start your journey to empowering information for your cancer treatment by contacting us online.
