Understanding Melanoma Skin Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancer, and while melanoma is relatively less common, it is among the most dangerous and aggressive forms. Melanoma originates from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing the skin pigment melanin. Although it accounts for a small percentage of skin cancer cases, it is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths (American Cancer Society, n.d.).
Causes of Melanoma Skin Cancer
The primary cause of melanoma is DNA damage within melanocytes due to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Excessive UV radiation exposure can trigger mutations in DNA, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer development (Sample & He, 2018). A study found a strong association between intermittent, intense sun exposure during childhood and adolescence and an increased risk of developing melanoma later in life (Oliveria et al., 2006).
Symptoms and Detection
Melanoma often manifests as a new or changing mole in terms of size, shape, or color. The ABCDE rule (asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter larger than 6mm, and evolving) is commonly used to identify potential melanomas. However, it's important to note that not all melanomas follow this pattern, underscoring the significance of regular dermatologist-conducted skin examinations (McCourt, Dolan, & Gormley, 2014).
Risk Factors
Several factors elevate an individual's risk of melanoma. In addition to UV exposure, genetics play a critical role. Individuals with a family history of melanoma or specific genetic mutations (like BRAF and CDKN2A) face a higher risk. Immune suppression, a history of blistering sunburns, and having numerous moles or atypical moles also increase risk (PDQ Cancer Genetics Editorial Board, 2023). A study found that individuals with more than 100 moles have a significantly higher risk of developing melanoma (Cancer Research UK, n.d.).
Preventive Measures
Preventing melanoma involves minimizing UV exposure and practicing sun-safe behaviors. This includes wearing protective clothing, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. A comprehensive review highlights the effectiveness of sun protection in reducing melanoma risk, particularly when initiated at a young age (University of Sydney, 2018).
Melanoma skin cancer demands attention and proactive measures. Understanding causes, symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies empowers individuals to safeguard their skin health. By reducing UV exposure, conducting regular self-examinations, and seeking professional screenings, the risk of melanoma can be significantly reduced. For a professional spot screening from the comfort of your home, you can utilize CheckMySpot app. Download it today.
Sources
American Cancer Society. (n.d.). What Is Melanoma? Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/melanoma-skin-cancer/about/what-is-melanoma.html
Cancer Research UK. (n.d.). Melanoma: risks and causes. Retrieved from https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/melanoma/risks-causes
McCourt, C., Dolan, O., & Gormley, G. (2014). Malignant melanoma: a pictorial review. The Ulster medical journal, 83(2), 103–110.
Oliveria, S. A., Saraiya, M., Geller, A. C., Heneghan, M. K., & Jorgensen, C. (2006). Sun exposure and risk of melanoma. Archives of disease in childhood, 91(2), 131–138. https://doi.org/10.1136/adc.2005.086918
PDQ Cancer Genetics Editorial Board. (2009). Genetics of Skin Cancer (PDQ®): Health Professional Version. In PDQ Cancer Information Summaries [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Cancer Institute (US); 2002-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK65895/
Sample, A., & He, Y. Y. (2018). Mechanisms and prevention of UV-induced melanoma. Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine, 34(1), 13–24. https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12329
University of Sydney. (2018, July 19). Sunscreen reduces melanoma risk by 40 percent in young people. https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2018/07/19/sunscreen-reduces-melanoma-risk-by-40-percent-in-young-people.html