Melanoma Matters: May is Melanoma Awareness Month

1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and while Melanoma accounts for only 1% of skin cancers, it is the leading cause of death related to the disease. This May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and we urge everyone to learn more about this disease and the ways in which we can prevent it. 

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops when melanocytes (the cells that give the skin its tan or brown color) start to grow out of control. Compared to other types of skin cancer, it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught and treated early. 

Your risk is influenced by multiple factors:

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is a major risk factor for most melanomas. UV rays most often come from sun exposure but can also be generated via tanning beds and sunlamps. A mole is a benign (non-cancerous) pigmented tumor, and while most moles will never become cancerous, someone who has many moles is more likely to develop melanoma. Your risk of melanoma is also higher if any of your first-degree relatives have had melanoma. 

Important reminder: Any new growths or spots on your body should be brought to your healthcare provider's attention.

If you have one of the warning signs in the following acronym ABCDE, have your skin checked by a doctor:

  • A is for Asymmetry: The diameter is not an even shape, or one half of a mole does not match the other.

  • B is for Border: The edges are not smooth and are irregular or ragged.

  • C is for Color: The color varies and may include colors of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue.

  • D is for Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about the size of a pencil eraser), although smaller melanomas are possible.

  • E is for Evolving: The spot or mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

The bottom line:

In order to lower your risk for melanoma, wear sunscreen with proper UV protection, avoid using tanning beds and sunlamps, examine your skin once a month for any abnormalities, and visit your healthcare provider once a year for a professional skin exam. 

For more melanoma-related information and resources, check out the Melanoma Research Foundation. Wave is here for you! As you incorporate these or other habits into your routine, don’t forget to track your daily activities, experiences, and symptoms to monitor your health. 

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