According to the American Cancer Society, melanoma is one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer. The National Cancer Institute estimates that there are 68,720 new cases of melanoma diagnosed every year. Melanoma is a type of cancer that starts in the mleanocyte cells. Generally, melanomas develop in a pigmented tissue, such as a mole and can quickly spread or metastasize to other areas of the body.
Light Skin
According to the American Cancer Society, someone who is fair skinned and has freckles may themselves at a higher risk for melanoma than other people. White skinned individuals are 10 times more likely to develop this type of cancer than someone with darker skin, such as those of African American descent. People that have naturally red hair or strawberry blond hair and blue eyes are at the highest risk.
Moles
Many people have a mole somewhere on their body. Most moles are not harmful. The more moles that you have, the higher your risk for developing melanoma. Determine if a mole may be cancerous by memorizing the A,B,C,D and Es of detecting a melanoma. Asymmetry is a mole that resembles an uneven edge from its opposite side. Borders that are jagged or irregular should be checked out by a dermatologist. Colors of moles that are mixed or shadowed with a variety of colors, could be a sign of melanoma. Diameter sizing over 6mm, or moles that are bigger than the head of a pencil eraser should be evaluated. Evolving moles that develop further and change in size, color or shape could also be an indication of melanoma.
Age
Age plays a minimal factor in melanoma development. Melanoma can occur at any age, but especially in older teens and young adults. People that have a genetic predisposition may see a melanoma cancer appear in late childhood. Melanoma is one of the most common cancers found in those under the age of 30, according to the American Cancer Society. In some cases, melanoma risk may increase with age, if someone has a combination of risk factors.
UV Exposure
Ultraviolet (UV) exposure is a contributing risk factor for developing melanoma, according to the American Cancer Society. This type of exposure is brought upon by sunlight and tanning bulbs. The radiation that the skin is exposed to damages genes inside of the skin cells. This is what increases the risk of developing this type of skin cancer. Minimizing skin exposure to ultraviolet light will help minimize the risk for melanoma.
Family History
Genetic factors are a strong risk factor for those who may develop melanoma. If immediate family members have been diagnosed with melanoma---especially at a younger age, other family members are at an increased risk, according to the American Cancer Society. Gene mutations can develop in some embryos, allowing them to be genetically predisposed to melanoma. Those with a family history or any other risk factors should seek dermatology care every six months to a year, or as suggested by their dermatologist.
