Skin cancer is a frightening disease and affects millions of people each year. Being aware of your own body is very beneficial in noticing if there are any significant changes occurring anywhere on your skin. Examining your skin periodically should be as routine for you as doing your own breast exams. It is important to watch closely for any unusual moles, sores or blemishes and for discolorations to your skin’s surface. Initial warning signs that you should be aware of are 1.) A sudden grown of skin that increases in size and looks pearly, translucent, or is brown, black, tan or multicolored. 2.) A sudden change in an existing mole that alter its consistency, color or texture. 3.) An itchy, hurting, crusty or ulcerated lesion or growth. 4.) A sore that does not heal or heals and then opens up again. These are just some of the most common skin cancer symptoms.
Malignant Melanoma is a very serious skin cancer disease and your survival rate depends on early detection. The moles associated with this form of skin cancer are shaped irregularly. Malignant melanomas often have irregular shapes that border them. Their color is usually variegated and ranges from tan, brown and black. They often contain white, red or blue areas within them. If a mole is larger than six millimeters, it often indicates Malignant Melanoma is present. Early skin cancer treatment is absolutely necessary when this type of skin cancer is indicated.
You are at risk for developing skin cancer if someone in your immediate family has had the disease, you have fair skin, blue eyes and blond or red hair, you sunburn easily, you received sunburns as a child or you have a compromised immune system. Malignant Melanoma is the number 1 cause of cancer deaths in women between the ages of 25 to 30 and is prevalent among the general population as well. Anyone can get it and gender doesn’t seem to play a role. Skin cancer treatment is your only option if you are diagnosed with this terrible disease. If you experience any of the preceding skin cancer symptoms or warning signs, be sure to discuss your concerns with your medical provider.