According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the United States and is the most common of all cancers. The most aggressive and dangerous type of skin cancer is Melanoma.
Facts about Melanoma
- Results in the most deaths related to skin cancer (9,700 of the nearly 13,000 skin cancer deaths per year — American Cancer Society)
- Besides on the skin, Melanoma can also be found in the eyes, mouth, skin under the nails, and genital and anal areas
- Melanoma is caused by:
- Excessive UV exposure (sunlight or tanning beds)
- Past severe sunburns
- Pale skin / light featured (red or blonde hair)
- Personal or family history of Melanoma or skin cancers
- Multiple moles
- Almost always curable if found at a very early stage
There are said to be 76,000 new cases of Melanoma each year.
Melanoma can be very dangerous and impacts individuals of all ages.
Prevention is extremely important. Remember to:
- Use sunscreen daily
- Wear a hat, sunglasses and sun protective clothing
- Limit sun exposure during peak hours (10 am — 4 pm)
- Avoid tanning beds completely, as tanning bed use has been directly linked with an increased risk of melanoma
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