Solariums are banned for young people under 18 in the US and the EU
Everyone has heard of malignant skin cancer – melanoma, but probably do not know enough to be safe. Because this is a deceptive disease. And it is among the most common among young people.
According to the American Dermatology Association, melanoma is the most common cancer in 25-29 year olds and the second most common cancer in 15-29 year olds. The sad statistics, according to general expert opinion, are due to tanning beds. Therefore, they are banned in the United States, Australia and most European countries for young people under 18.
Melanoma affects people of all skin types
It is true that people with more pigment have a lower risk of skin cancer due to higher sun protection, but this does not mean that they do not use photoprotectors. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas are most commonly associated with sun exposure. They are less common in people with darker colors. In them they are localized mainly on the palms and soles.
It may not develop on an existing mole
The idea that bad moles become melanoma and should not be touched is completely wrong. By removing a suspicious mole, you prevent it from degenerating into melanoma.
It can occur in people with very few or no moles
Yes, the change in scars such as color, shape, size in existing moles makes us think of melanoma, and the more the risk is greater, but melanoma occurs in other places.
It may not be a mole
Melanoma can look like a small bruise that doesn’t go away or like a dark spot under the nail. Bob Marley was diagnosed with melanoma under the toenail in July 1977. He ignored the recommendations and refused an amputation. He died of lung and brain metastases at the age of 36 in May 1981.
It can appear in places that are not exposed to the sun
For example, between the fingers, under the arms, on the genitals.
It has a higher percentage in adults
Melanoma is a common diagnosis among baby boomers who did not have access to photoprotection in childhood. Then everyone was lying on the beach with nothing or smeared with oil. For people in their 50s and 60s, who had very high sun exposure in their youth, melanoma is a manifestation of a gene mutation in melanocytes.
This is the most malignant of all cancers
According to statistics, every hour in the world one person dies from melanoma.
It can be treated when caught early
There is a direct link between early diagnosis and the chance of survival. A 5-year follow-up of patients who were diagnosed and treated before the melanoma spread to the lymph nodes (stage 3) showed a 98% survival rate.
This is largely due to the increased ability of dermatologists to recognize the earliest forms of superficial melanoma before it enters the dermis. There are already studies of certain genetic markers that predict the likelihood of melanoma metastases.
It’s not just the sun and the solarium
People with a family history of melanoma need to be much more careful. The data show that if you have a first-degree relative with melanoma, it increases your risk by 10-15%. You need to know your specific skin cancer history – it is important whether your grandmother at 80 had basal cell carcinoma or your brother at 50 – melanoma. The difference is huge.
Screening
Check your moles twice a year with your dermatologist. Make sure he is qualified enough for a dermatoscopy. Look for a digital dermatoscope – this way you will have your mole history stored in your dermatologist’s database, as well as photos of your own documentation. Examinations are usually good to do in spring and autumn.
It is important to know that free screening examinations are constantly being conducted – do not miss them as an opportunity.