What’s It to Me?
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. It is also becoming one of the most common
types in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about 44,200 new cases of melanoma are
reported and about 7,300 deaths occur each year. Many dermatologists believe there is a link between childhood
sunburns and malignant melanoma later in life.
Warning Signs of Melanoma
Melanoma begins as uncontrolled growth of melanocytes. This growth results in formation of dark-pigmented
malignant moles or tumors called melanomas. Melanomas can appear suddenly with no warning or can develop
from or near moles. it is thus very important to notice any changes in the number and appearance of moles on
the body. Melanomas can occur anywhere on the body but are most frequently found on the upper backs and legs
of women and the upper backs of men. You should be aware of unusual 
skin conditions such as:
- change in size or color of moles
- change in size or color of darkly or irregularly pigmented growths or spots
- scaliness, oozing, bleeding, or change in a bump or nodule
- the spread of pigment from a bump or nodule or spot into surrounding skin a change in sensation such as itchiness, tenderness or pain.
Cure Rates of Melanoma
When detected in its earliest stages, melanoma is almost always curable. However, if not diagnosed early, melanoma can spread to other parts of the body is often fatal.
Hey, it’s Cool in the Shade.
Protect your skin. Protect yourself.
Some pages on this website are created and maintained by kids—members of Texas 4-H.