Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that originates in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin that gives our skin its color. This aggressive cancer begins when these cells undergo changes and begin to grow uncontrollably. In fact, melanoma is the deadliest type of skin cancer, and its incidence has been increasing at a faster rate than most other types of cancer.
While the exact reasons behind the surge in melanoma cases are not entirely understood, there are a few key factors that appear to contribute. One of the most likely culprits is excessive sun exposure, especially during outdoor activities. The depletion of the ozone layer, which normally absorbs harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, may also be playing a role. It is believed that the pattern of sun exposure is more critical in determining melanoma risk than the total amount of time spent in the sun over a lifetime. Short, intense periods of sun exposure, particularly those that lead to sunburns, seem to increase the chances of developing melanoma. Sunburns can cause genetic mutations in skin cells, triggering the growth of cancerous cells.
The most common form of melanoma is superficial spreading melanoma, which often starts by spreading along the surface of the skin before possibly growing deeper into the underlying tissues. However, melanoma can also form in other parts of the body, including mucosal areas or internal organs, although these types are less common.
Certain factors increase a person’s likelihood of developing melanoma. Individuals with fair skin, light-colored eyes (such as green or blue), and red or blond hair are more prone to the condition. A history of significant sun exposure, particularly during childhood, can also elevate the risk. Additionally, having a family member who has been diagnosed with melanoma increases the likelihood of developing it, with a person being eight times more likely to be affected if a first-degree relative has had melanoma.
Moles and freckles are common indicators that could raise the risk of melanoma. These include the appearance of a new mole after the age of 30 or the development of a mole in areas of the body that are usually protected from sun exposure. Changes in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole can also signal melanoma, as can the presence of atypical moles—those with irregular borders, multiple colors, or larger diameters. A particularly concerning feature is the presence of more than 20 moles larger than 2 millimeters across, or five moles larger than 5 millimeters, which is the size of a pencil eraser.
Melanoma typically presents as a dark, irregularly shaped spot or growth on the skin. It can develop on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, like the back, chest, and legs, but can appear anywhere. If you notice any changes in your skin or moles, keep an eye out for the ABCDEs of melanoma: Asymmetry (uneven halves), Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter (larger than 6 millimeters), and Evolving (changes over time).
If your doctor suspects melanoma, they will likely perform a biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of the suspicious tissue for laboratory analysis. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may be examined to see if the cancer has spread. A key factor in determining the seriousness of the melanoma is its depth. Tumors deeper than 1 millimeter are more likely to spread to other parts of the body.
Treatment for melanoma depends on the stage and depth of the tumor. Early-stage melanoma is often treatable with surgery, where the tumor and surrounding healthy tissue are removed. For melanomas that are deeper or have spread, further treatments may be necessary, such as immunotherapy or targeted therapies designed to block specific cancer cell pathways. In some cases, radiation or chemotherapy may be used, although these are generally less effective than other options.
Prevention is crucial when it comes to melanoma, and one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk is by limiting sun exposure. If you must be outside, take steps to protect your skin, such as wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, covering up with protective clothing, and avoiding tanning salons. Regular self-examinations of your skin are important, especially if you have risk factors for melanoma. If you notice any unusual changes, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.
Ultimately, early detection and prevention are key to reducing the risks associated with melanoma. By staying vigilant about your skin’s health and seeking medical advice when needed, you can help protect yourself from this deadly but preventable form of cancer.
