Skin Cancer Awareness

This post will focus on Melanoma, which is skin cancer that starts in the cell. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and although less than 5% of the cases are melanoma, it accounts for the most deaths. Tumors can come from different skin cells. Moles are the most common, which is why it is important to have your dermatologist check regularly. Most moles are harmless, but some signs can show danger. PubMed Health has the ABCDE system to look out for harmful moles or bumps:

The ABCDE system can help you remember possible symptoms of melanoma:

• Asymmetry: One half of the abnormal area is different from the other half.
• Borders: The edges of the growth are irregular.
• Color: Color changes from one area to another, with shades of tan, brown, or black, and sometimes white, red, or blue. A mixture of colors may appear within one sore.
• Diameter: The spot is usually (but not always) larger than 6 mm in diameter -- about the size of a pencil eraser.
• Evolution: The mole keeps changing appearance.
  http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001853/

There are many causes of Melanoma, the largest being harmful UltraViolet Sun Rays. Being in the sun without protection takes a large toll on your skin. A way to protect yourself is to have regular exams from a doctor and to check your skin regularaly. Also, make sure to use sunscreen before going outside for long periods of time or on sunny days. A family history of melanoma puts one at a larger risk for attracting the disease. Again, be safe and protect yourself and you won't have as much to worry about.

The American Cancer Society has tips on how to prevent melanoma. Most are pretty obvious, but reiteration can help save lives. Visit this link to read more.

Stay safe in the sun, don't go tanning in electric beds, and check your self regularly for harmful spots. Skin cancer is the most common cancer, but one of the easiest to prevent. Being smart can save your life.