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Melanoma
WHAT CAUSES MELANOMA?Excessive exposure to the ultraviolet radiation of the sun is the most important preventable cause of melanoma. Melanoma also has been linked to excessive sun exposure in the first 10 to 18 years of life. Other possible causes include genetic factors and immune system deficiencies.
WHAT DOES MELANOMA LOOK LIKE?
Asymmetry – One half does not match the other half.
Border irregularity – The edges are ragged, notched or blurred.
Color – The pigmentation is not uniform. Shades of tan, brown or black are present. Dashes of red, white, and blue add to the mottled appearance.
Diameter – While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm in diameter when diagnosed, they can be smaller. If you notice a mole different from others, or which changes, itches or bleeds even if it is smaller than 6mm, you should see a dermatologist.
RISK CATAGORIES
Highest Risk: Previous Melanoma
Many large and/or atypical {unusual} moles
Blood relative has had melanoma
Increased Risk: Fair skin
Red heads and Blondes
Blue or green eyes
Excessive exposure in the first 10 to 18 years of life
Five or more sunburns doubles the risk
MELANOMA PREVENTION
Generously apply sunscreen to all exposed skin using a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 that provides broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Re-apply every two hours, even on cloudy days and after swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, where possible.
Seek shade when appropriate, remembering that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Avoid tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds causes skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you’ve been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product, but continue to use sunscreen with it.
OTHER WEBSITE RESOURCES
http://www.kycancerprogram.org
http://www.browncancercenter.org
