Skin Cancer Melanoma Month: Why Early Detection is Key

by | May 14, 2024 | Skin Cancer

May is recognized globally as Skin Cancer Awareness Month, with a special focus on melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer. At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson City, TN, we are committed to educating our community about the importance of early detection and preventative measures to combat this aggressive disease.

What are anal skin tags?

Understanding Melanoma

Melanoma originates in the melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in your skin. Unlike basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, which are more common and less lethal, melanoma has a higher likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body if not caught early. It is caused by uncontrolled growth of pigment cells and can appear on the skin suddenly without warning or develop from an existing mole.

The Importance of Early Detection

The survival rate for melanoma significantly increases with early detection. When detected early, melanoma is highly treatable with a five-year survival rate of 99 percent. However, if it spreads to distant organs, the survival rate can drop to 27 percent. This stark difference underscores the critical nature of early detection.

Signs and Symptoms

Early signs of melanoma are changes in the size, shape, color, or feel of an existing mole. The ABCDE rule provides a simple way to remember what to look for:

  • (A)symmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
  • (B)order: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
  • (C)olor: The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
  • (D)iameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about ¼ inch – the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller.
  • (E)volving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

Skin Cancer Melanoma Prevention Tips

Preventing melanoma starts with protecting yourself from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Here are some preventative steps you can take:

  • Avoid Burning and Tanning: Avoid sunburns and never use UV tanning beds.
  • Wear Sunscreen: Use broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
  • Cover Up: Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
  • Seek Shade: Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
  • Watch for Reflections: Water, snow, and sand reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.

The Importance of Regular Skin Exams for Skin Cancer Melanoma

Regular skin exams by a healthcare professional are essential for detecting skin cancer early. At Premier Surgical Associates, we encourage annual skin checks as part of a routine preventive health care plan. We also stress the importance of self-exams. Regularly examining your skin for any new moles or changes in existing moles is vital. 

During Skin Cancer Melanoma Month—and throughout the year—it’s important to focus on the prevention and early detection of melanoma. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or have concerns about skin cancer, our surgeons are skilled at removing skin cancers.  Reach out to us online to schedule an appointment. Remember: early detection can save lives, and together, we can combat the threat of melanoma.