Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that starts in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives you skin color. Understanding melanoma and knowing how to protect yourself is important to reducing risk and improving health outcomes.

Many people underestimate the impact of certain health concerns, especially when it comes to preventative measures. Protecting your skin is essential to maintain overall health and prevent various skin related problems. Effective skin protection helps protect against harmful UV radiation, which can cause sunburn, premature aging and even skin cancer. Prioritizing skin care is an important step in ensuring long-term wellness and enjoying a vibrant, youthful appearance.

Among these concerns, melanoma—a type of skin cancer—is an important but often overlooked risk. Many individuals are unaware of the risks and signs associated with this serious condition, leading to late diagnosis and more serious health consequences. Understanding melanoma and knowing how to protect yourself is important to reducing risk and improving health outcomes.

What is Melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in the cells that give your skin its color. It is less prevalent than other types of skin cancer but poses a higher risk due to its potential to metastasize if not detected early. Melanoma affects people of all sexes and ages, although certain factors can increase susceptibility. Here's why this is a concern:

• Many people spend a lot of time outdoors and neglect to use sunscreen.
• Routine skin examinations are often neglected, leading to a delay in diagnosis.
• Exposure to UV rays, whether from the sun or tanning beds, increases the risk of melanoma.
• Depending on the skin, thickness, collagen and elastin levels of some individuals, sun exposure may cause more damage.
• Research suggests that these ingredients can make skin more vulnerable to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Common signs

It is important to recognize the symptoms of melanoma early. Dr Abhishek Charan, Medical Oncologist, HCG Cancer Center Jaipur shares common symptoms to watch for:

• A change in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole.
• Irregular, jagged or blurred edges on moles.
• Moles exhibiting multiple colors or uneven color distribution.
• Moles larger than about 6 mm should be evaluated by a doctor.
• Any changes in the mole such as size, shape, color or other characteristics.

If you notice any of these signs or notice something unusual, it's important to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist quickly. Early diagnosis is the key to successful treatment.

Can you prevent it?

• Taking steps to prevent melanoma is important, although not all risk factors can be controlled.
• Regardless of the weather, make sure you apply a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.
• Wearing protective clothing such as long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses can effectively protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when sunlight is at its strongest.
• Tanning beds must be avoided, as they emit UV radiation that significantly increases the risk of melanoma.
• Examining your skin regularly every month and scheduling an annual check-up with a dermatologist can help detect any changes or abnormalities early, improving the chances of successful treatment.

Incorporate these practices into your routine to actively reduce your risk of melanoma and maintain healthy skin for years to come. Understanding melanoma and taking proactive steps can make a significant difference in protecting your skin and overall health. By being aware and adopting sun-safe habits, you can enjoy outdoor activities while reducing your risk of skin cancer. Get in the habit of healthy skin! Get informed and take charge of your skincare routine.