Skin Cancer: May, Awareness & Prevention month for Melanoma

May, the favorite month of spring, the month that opens the way to summer, is also the month of information and awareness against melanoma (skin cancer), the most common form of cancer, which is characterized by its aggressiveness.

Awareness campaigns are underway all over the world for the prevention and early diagnosis of skin cancer-melanoma, which is crucial to its treatment.

The need for public awareness is also pointed out by Facemed Clinic, which reminds us not to forget the scheduled visit to our dermatologist, to immediately seek his advice on any change we may notice in a mole on our body and of course to take UV protection.

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer or melanoma is the most dangerous form of cancer. It develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, the substance that gives skin its color. It usually appears as a small black spot on the skin, or it can develop into a mole that already exists.

Note that skin cancer is a curable form of cancer when detected in its early stages. However, the information and awareness of the public about the symptoms of skin cancer is considered low, as observed by the European information network for the prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.

Ask the doctor

Dr. Loizidis Christoforos

Dermatologist - Venereologist

210 69 29 999

Skin Cancer concerns us all!

Skin cancer affects us all. It is most often found in people over 50, as well as in those who are overexposed to the sun. Those with fair skin, a history of excessive sun exposure, and more than 50 moles on their skin are also at greater risk.

Melanoma

The Skin Cancer "alphabet"

Method A. B. C. D. E. may be useful if you find a new mole on your body or a change in an existing one.

More specifically in the case of melanoma the first five letters of the English alphabet mean:

Α-asymmetry

It refers to the asymmetry of the mole, where one half does not look like the other.

Β-border

It refers to the outline of the mole that is not clearly defined when it comes to melanoma.

C-colour

It refers to the color of the mole, which is characterized by variety and can change from one area to another.

D-diametre

The diameter of the melanoma is usually greater than 6 mm, while if diagnosed early it can be smaller.

E-evolving

It means (evolving) that it changes in size, shape or color.

"Hidden" Skin Cancer

In addition to melanoma located on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun's rays, there are also hidden melanoma, those that is located in areas that is not exposed to the sun, such as melanoma under a fingernail, melanoma in the eye , melanoma in the digestive tract, urinary tract and vagina.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of melanoma is made during the clinical examination by the experienced dermatologist, surgeon or oncologist. A biopsy can also confirm whether a suspected lesion is melanoma in the mouth, digestive tract, urinary tract, and vagina. Treatment depends on the stage of the melanoma, as well as your general health.

Dermatoscopy and nevi mapping by the specially trained dermatologist are two important diagnostic tools for detecting melanoma early.

Nevus Mapping

Dermatological Examination

Skin Cancer Prevention

Prevention and early detection of skin cancer literally save lives. Avoiding the sun, wearing sunscreen even when it's cloudy or when it's raining, and additionally protecting yourself with appropriate clothing, glasses, and a hat greatly reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Frequent Questions

Where on the body can skin cancer occur?

Skin cancer can appear anywhere on the body. Men are most likely to develop melanoma on the trunk and more specifically on the back and women on the legs.

Can changing my eating habits help to prevent melanoma?

The American Cancer Society advocates that a healthy eating model based on fruits and vegetables is part of a comprehensive plan to deal with any form of cancer.