Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and it can appear anywhere on the skin. The earlier you recognize the warning signs of melanoma, the higher your chances of treating it successfully.

What Causes Melanoma?

Melanoma is caused by an abnormal growth of pigmented cells called melanocytes. When melanocytes grow uncontrollably, they can form a tumor. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds is a major risk factor for developing melanoma.

What Are the Warning Signs of Melanoma?

There are several warning signs that could indicate melanoma:.

A mole or spot on the skin that changes size, color, or shape
A new mole or spot that appears on the skin
A mole or spot that bleeds or oozes
A mole or spot that becomes itchy or painful
A mole or spot that has irregular edges or looks different from other moles or spots on the skin

If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to see a dermatologist right away. Your dermatologist can examine the mole or spot and, if necessary, perform a biopsy to determine if it is melanoma.

How Is Melanoma Treated?

If melanoma is caught early, it can often be treated with surgery to remove the cancerous cells. In some cases, additional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy may be recommended.

Even after melanoma has been treated, it’s important to continue monitoring your skin for new moles or changes in existing moles. Regular skin checks with your dermatologist can help detect melanoma early, when it is most treatable.

How Can I Lower My Risk of Melanoma?

The best way to lower your risk of melanoma is to protect your skin from the sun:.

Avoid spending time in the sun during peak hours, typically from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wear protective clothing like hats, long sleeves, and UV-blocking sunglasses
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating
Avoid tanning beds, which expose your skin to UV radiation that can increase your risk of melanoma

It’s also important to examine your skin regularly for any new moles or changes in existing moles. If you notice anything concerning, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist.

Conclusion

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer, but it’s treatable when caught early. By recognizing the warning signs of melanoma and taking steps to protect your skin from the sun, you can help reduce your risk of developing this deadly cancer.