Malignant Melanoma

Skin cancer can be divided into 2 major categories. These are melanoma and non-melanoma.

Melanoma is a potentially life-threatening and aggressive cancer. The good news is that if detected and treated early it can be cured. Its progression, however, is faster than other types of skin cancer, spreading beyond the skin and affecting other parts of the body like bones or the brain. This highlights the need to be vigilant when checking skin for changes and having annual dermatologist screenings.

Melanoma can begin in either highly pigmented (like birthmarks) or normally pigmented skin. Whilst it is most common for it to appear on the chest or back, it can also be found on the palm of the hand, soles of the feet, under a finger or toe nail, in the mucous linings of the mouth, vagina or anus and in the eyes.

Infrequent by excessive sun exposure that cause severe sunburn is associated with Melanoma. One blistering sunburn in childhood can double the risk of developing melanoma later on in life.

Follow the ABC’s and protect yourself and your family.

The South African Skin Cancer Foundation is here to help and educate. Please spread the word and help us prevent skin cancer.