Melanoma Facts

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. Melanoma cases are increasing, with cases doubling from 1982 to 2011.  More that 9000 Americans die from Melanoma each year. In 2011 there were more than 65,000 cases of Melanoma.  Prevention practices could cut that number by one-third.

Melanoma can be caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or other sources (indoor tanning). Without coordinated prevention efforts, the disease will continue to increase.

What can you do?

• Understand that tanned skin is damaged skin
• Wear protection such as hats and glasses
• Try to stay in the shade during midday hours
• Use sunscreen
• Avoid sunbathing and indoor tanning

More about Melanoma

Spots suspicious for melanoma usually show one or more of the following symptoms and signs (the ABCDs):

• Asymmetry,
• Border irregularity,
• Color changes or too many colors in one mole,
• Diameter more than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser).
• Some now add a fifth letter: E for Evolving.