As much as most everyone loves the sun, there comes a point where we must pay for the damage that our supposed friend does to us. And most of it happens while we give little or no thought to it. For example, take a look at the following statistics from the Melanoma Research Foundation:
One-in-50 Americans has a lifetime risk of developing melanoma.
-In 2009 nearly 63,000 were diagnosed with melanoma in the United States, resulting in approximately 8,650 deaths.
-The projected numbers (according to the American Cancer Society) for 2013 are even higher with 76,690 diagnosis and 9,480 deaths.
As you can see, although more awareness has been brought to our attention, skin cancer is still on the rise. With all of the sun screen applications available, including the best organic variety of sun block, new hats and swim shirts, most people wear these only part of the time.
But Melanoma is only just one of the types of skin cancer. There are several more less deadly or serious types such as Squamous cell carcinoma Merkel cell carcinoma, and Basal cell carcinoma, not to mention the other precancerous types that when detected early, can be treated fairly easily with great outcomes.
It is important to know the ABCDE guide if an unusual mole or spot appears on your skin and identify if it is Melanoma.
Melanoma — a serious form of skin cancer — is often curable if you find it early.
Melanoma — a serious form of skin cancer — is often curable if you find it early.
The American Academy of Dermatology advises that you watch skin spots for these features:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Color changes
- Diameter greater than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters)
- Evolving
Follow this ABCDE guide to determine if an unusual mole or suspicious spot on your skin may be melanoma. With frequent inspection serious skin cancer can be prevented.
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