Skin cancer: melanoma

12:34 - 10.09.2018


Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Melanoma used to be considered a rare type of skin cancer, but in recent years the number of cases of this type of skin cancer has grown rapidly. The late stage of the disease is fatal, but if it is detected at the initial stage, its treatment is possible.  
Signs:
To find out when to see a doctor, you should pay attention to 5 signs. The U.S. Society of Dermatologists indicates these symptoms by letters ABCDE:
Asymmetry 
If one half of the mole is significantly different from the other, be sure to consult your doctor.
Border irregularity 
Uneven edges or blurred borders of the mole may indicate the presence of melanoma.
Color  
Colorful or very dark mole is also characteristic of melanoma.
Diameter 
It is important to pay attention to moles whose diameter exceeds 6 mm, but moles with even smaller size may also be melanoma.
Evolution

If you notice change in the size, color or boundaries of the mole, contact your doctor immediately.
If above-listed changes are not observed in the mole, but nevertheless you think there is something wrong, you need to see a doctor to dispel doubts. 

How to prevent the formation of melanoma?

For all types of skin cancer, including melanoma, be sure to protect yourself from the sun. Try not to be in direct sunlight between 10 am and 4 pm. Make a habit of using sunscreens. When buying sunscreens, choose those products that have protective properties against ultraviolet and infrared rays. Avoid sunbathing and artificial tanning. Inspect attentively your moles monthly, especially those that are in areas most often exposed to sunlight (hands, face, and back).

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