This May 23rd, the World Melanoma Daya type of skin cancer that affects up to 4% of malignant tumors of the skin. And its incidence has only increased in the last 25 years, which is why it is important to make the population aware of what measures we can take to prevent it from developing (as far as possible) and to diagnose it. Something very important, as melanoma is one of the types of cancer with higher mortality rates.
What is a melanoma?
Melanoma is a type of tumor that forms in the melanocytes, that is, in the cells that produce melanin (the pigment that gives color to the skin). This disease arises due to several factors, such as constant exposure to ultraviolet radiation or genetic background. If not stopped in time, this disease can quickly spread to other parts of the body and other tissues.
As for his incidenceIt is important to highlight that Spain is an exception on our continent. While in the rest of Europe men are more susceptible to suffering from the disease, in our country it is the opposite and the incidence is higher among women. A difference that is also worth highlighting is that in women it is more common melanomas appear on the legs and arms, while, in the case of men, they tend to be more common on the trunk, neck and head.
middle Ages of patients diagnosed with melanoma are 65 years old. Although this does not exempt people of all ages from contracting the disease. In fact, it's one of the most common cancers in young adults...maybe because young people are more reckless and more obsessive about tanning.
And in this case, Skin color has a lot to do with it. If we look at the case of the United States, whose diversity makes it the perfect statistical universe to evaluate the different incidences of the disease based on racial differences, we can see that melanoma is more than 20 times more common in white people this in black
And in the case of Hispanic population In the country, cases are also distributed according to the skin color gradient, making people with lighter skin notably more vulnerable. However, this does not mean – in any case – that dark-skinned people are immune to the disease. All skin colors need to use sunscreen and protect against ultraviolet radiation of sunlight.
And for all the reasons explained above, it is also absolutely necessary that we identify how the disease presents itselfwhich is -mainly- with the appearance of spots of unusual shape, texture and color:
How to identify melanoma?
A early diagnosis It represents a huge advantage when proposing an effective treatment against melanoma. Therefore, experts recommend carefully reviewing our bodies and those of our loved ones -at least- two or three times a year…and not just during the summer months. Because, although it is true that you are more likely to contract it at this time of year, it is perfectly possible for the disease to manifest itself at other times.
According to the ASpanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) we can be guided by a mnemonic rule, which can help us identify whether a mole could be a melanoma and whether, consequently, we should go to the hospital. dermatologist to confirm its evil nature. All we have to do is remember the letters “ABCDE”which refer to:
Asymmetry
Benign moles appear on our body with a spheroidal shape, while melanomas have a anomalous shape…devoid of any symmetry.
Edge
The borders of a melanoma are irregularwith irregular shapes and -often- appear blurred.
Color
Moles are lighter or darker brown in color… but always homogeneous. In contrast, a melanoma presents different tones. It may have black, brown, white, gray, red or even blue areas.
Diameter
Many people have large moles, but they have usually been there since childhood. On the other hand, if we see that a new mole has appeared greater than 6mm or if we see it growing, it is important to pay attention and consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Evolution
All of the above characteristics are common to melanomas. However, what is most characteristic is that they are not static, but rather they evolve over time. Therefore, if an existing wart begins to vary in size, color or thickness, we should suspect that something may be wrong.
It is worth highlighting that these five points are indicative. They are not a reliable 100% method diagnosis. Therefore, we should not be alarmed until we have consulted with a professional who will have the necessary tools to determine whether it -really- is melanoma.
