5 Common Melanoma Myths
You must shield your skin from the sun’s radiation. That is because melanoma, the worst skin cancer, may develop after years of sun exposure. Melanoma occurs when cancer cells multiply on your skin, either in an entirely new spot or in an already present mole region. When you detect Chevy Chase melanoma early and treat it promptly, it is highly curable. However, if left untreated, it may spread to the internal organs and lymph nodes, eventually resulting in death.
Still, many myths surround this kind of skin cancer. It is why it is important to dispel misconceptions and provide accurate information on skin cancer and melanoma.
- The majority of those who get melanoma are in their senior years
The American Cancer Society estimates that almost 100,000 cases of this kind of skin cancer will be discovered in the year 2022. More than a million individuals are already coping with the condition and will soon be joining that number. Even though many are seniors, younger individuals might be affected too. The incidence rate is high among young people, particularly young women.
- You will be OK; it is “only” skin cancer
People often wrongly assume that skin cancer can be surgically excised. However, melanoma is the most lethal kind of skin cancer, and it becomes very dangerous if it spreads to other regions of the body (such as the lymph nodes).
- There is no correlation between mole count and melanoma
Having many moles on your body is a far greater indicator of melanoma risk than dark skin—your chance of developing malignant melanoma increases if you have many moles. The likelihood of developing melanoma is increased by a factor of six if you have more than 100 moles. It is like having red hair or extremely pale skin, increasing your risk compared to the average person.
About a third of melanomas start in preexisting moles, while the vast majority appear in unrelated locations. It would help if you watched for skin changes or growths, such as moles or freckles. Get any suspicious area investigated by a doctor, no matter how little or inconsequential you may believe it is.
- Melanoma can only manifest itself externally
Melanocytes, the cells that give skin its pigmentation or color, may also be found in the eyes, making them vulnerable to melanoma (called ocular melanoma). Uveal melanoma and conjunctival melanoma are the two subtypes of ocular melanoma. Around 5% of all melanoma cases are uveal melanoma, making it the most frequent eye cancer in adults.
- Those who have naturally dark skin are immune to developing skin cancer
Skin cancer may affect anyone’s life, regardless of race or ethnicity. Melanoma strikes more often in those with fair skin, but it is more lethal for those with darker complexions. Experts speculate that this is because individuals of color may not perceive themselves as in danger, leading them to delay seeking treatment.
Misconceptions abound around melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. Since everyone is at risk, it is important to check your skin every month from head to toe. Consult a doctor if you notice a new mole or a change in an existing one. Get in touch with a dermatologist as soon as possible if you want a skin cancer risk assessment and advice on protecting your skin from damage.