The skin cancer category includes basal cell skin cancer, squamous cell skin cancer, and melanoma. Skin cancer other than melanoma is common – more than five million people in the U.S. receive a diagnosis annually. But melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer that is more likely to invade tissues and spread to other parts of the body. According to estimates from the National Cancer Institute, nearly 101,000 Americans would be diagnosed with a melanoma in 2024 and about 8,300 would die from the disease.
The risk of melanoma seems to be increasing among people under 40, especially women. May is “Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month,” a good time to get educated about skin cancers. Knowing their symptoms can help ensure cancerous changes are detected and treated before the cancer spreads. Melanoma can be treated successfully if found early.
Pay Attention to Changes
Melanoma is actually more common among men than women, and among individuals of fair complexion. Unusual moles, exposure to natural or artificial sunlight – such as from tanning beds over long periods of time – and health history can affect the risk of developing melanoma. In addition to the skin, it can also occur in mucous membranes (thin, moist layers of tissue that cover surfaces like the lips) or in the eye. The latter is called ocular or uveal melanoma.
Signs that may indicate melanoma are moles with unusual shapes, such as two different-looking halves, or growths with many colors or unusual color patterns. Changes in size, such as new growth in a mole larger than a quarter-inch, can indicate trouble. Itchiness, bleeding, or moles with notched or scalloped borders are also indicators. If you notice any skin changes that worry you, contact your primary care doctor or other health care professional.
Talk with Your Doctor
Go get checked. Talk with your primary care provider about cancer screenings. Also, if you have a loved one or friend who is suffering from a melanoma or other form of skin cancer, consider organizing an event or fundraiser to help attack this dreaded disease.
You may also want to consider donating to our Good Samaritan Cancer Fund, which helps patients who are struggling to pay for their medication, transportation to appointments, hotel stays for long visits, and other costs.
