Despite all the incredible advances in medical research and technology, cancer remains one of the biggest health problems facing modern societies. Melanoma is one of the most common types of skin cancer and the most dangerous. Especially if the affected person ignores the early symptoms. Melanoma is the cause of death for three-quarters of all skin cancer patients. More than 76,000 cases and nearly 10,000 deaths from melanoma are expected to be diagnosed this year. The number of melanoma patients has increased in recent years, but early diagnosis can save lives.
Melanoma Cancer Risk Factors
Diagnosing melanoma at an early stage can significantly increase the chances of saving the life of the affected person. People who start treatment in the early stages of this disease have a 100% chance of surviving for the next five years and a 95% chance of surviving for the next ten years. However, when treatment is started at stages where the disease has worsened, these values are 15 to 20 percent.
Many other factors also influence the development of cutaneous melanoma. These factors range from voluntary and voluntary aspects of life to biological and involuntary characteristics. Although it is not clear which of these factors is more dangerous than others, doctors have listed some of the main and key factors of melanoma in the following order:
1. Age
In general, melanomas are more common in older people. However, even younger people are not immune to the disease. Melanoma is one of the most common cancers affecting people under the age of 30, especially women.
2. Gender
According to the American Cancer Society, women are more likely to develop melanoma before age 40, while men are more likely to develop the disease after age 40. The risk of melanoma in younger women is likely higher due to sun exposure and tanning, but men are generally at a higher risk than women. The reasons for this difference are not yet clear.
3. Mole
Moles are small brown lumps formed by the accumulation of a group of pigmented cells in the skin and are common at any age. Most moles do not pose a health risk, but one of these common moles can develop into melanoma. There is also a type of birthmark called a dysplastic birthmark, which is a benign birthmark, but people with this type of birthmark are at a higher risk of developing melanoma than others.
4. Ultraviolet Light
Many people believe that ultraviolet rays are the most common cause of skin cancer. UV rays from tanning salons and direct sunlight can damage the genetic structure of skin cells. When these rays damage the DNA that regulates skin cell growth, they can quickly cause cancer. There are different types of UV rays, none of which are harmful to health.
5. Fair Skin and Blonde Hair.
White people with fair skin are more susceptible to melanoma than others. People with red and blonde hair and pale skin with freckles are more susceptible to this disease than others.
6. Family History
Nearly one-tenth of melanoma patients have a genetic history of the disease. Hereditary diseases can easily be passed on to children. Do your research and find out if other members of your family have had melanoma.
Melanoma Cancer Symptoms
If we act faster against any type of cancer, we will have better outcomes. This is especially true for melanoma. Therefore, pay attention to some of the early signs of melanoma in your body.
1. Moles
Check your moles: Most moles are normal and harmless, but some signs may indicate melanoma. When new moles appear on the skin or old ones start to change shape, the following criteria should be analyzed:
- Asymmetry: Both sides of the birthmark are not equal
- The edge of the birthmark is not smooth and clean
- Change in color (multi-colored dots)
- Increase in diameter: The birthmark grows and spreads.
- Becomes larger and more visible
- If a mole encounters such diseases and characteristics, caution is required, and consultation with a doctor is required. New moles that grow rapidly, itch, and bleed should also be taken seriously.
2. Wounds
Wounds that do not heal – If inflammatory wounds do not heal despite medication and treatment, you should consult a specialist.
3. Nail color
Check your nails: Melanoma growth can sometimes be identified by the formation of black and brown spots under your fingernails and toenails.
Pain and Bruising: Melanoma can also be diagnosed by bruising and discoloration, which take much longer to heal than normal bruising. In addition, some areas of sensitive and thin skin may be painful from time to time throughout the day.
Reducing the Risk of Melanoma Cancer
The best way to keep this dangerous cancer away from your future and life is to know its causes and take some simple preventative measures. Perhaps reaching a certain age or genetic factors make some people more susceptible to this disease, but no one is immune to melanoma skin cancer.
Restricting sunbathing or solariums (natural and artificial radiation) is a very dangerous pastime. Your skin is not prepared to absorb the sun's rays for a long period of time.
Use Sunscreen: Regular use of sunscreen in sufficient and appropriate concentrations makes spending time outdoors safer.
Stay out of the sun at certain times of the day: As the sun moves from east to west throughout the day, the intensity of its rays also changes depending on the angle at which it hits the earth. The sun’s intensity is highest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so it’s best to generally avoid the sun during these hours.
Arm yourself with protection: Wearing sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) light isn’t just about being fashionable. Sunglasses block UV light and protect your eyes.
Seek shade: In general, try to stay out of the sun as little as possible and, if possible, seek shade. If you must be out in the sun, be sure to wear a hat and cover-up.
Unfortunately, some people still don’t know that the sun can be such a threat to life. Many organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, are investing in cancer treatment and cancer prevention education. Being aware of the risks and making some small changes in life can lead to a better and more favorable future.
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