Melanoma is considered to be the most serious type of skin cancer and it develops in the melanocytes, which are cells that produce melanin. This condition can also form in the eyes and in rare cases, in the intestines. The risk of this type of skin cancer seems to be increasing in people under the age of 40 due to a combination of factors. To understand the condition better, one needs to be aware of melanoma symptoms and treatment and also of steps that can be taken for its prevention.

Here is a brief explanation of the above. To stave off melanoma and other types of skin cancer, one needs to take the following preventions:

• Avoid the sun

The sun’s rays are strongest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Avoiding the sun at these hours will help you avoid sunburn and suntan that causes skin damage and increases your risk of developing skin cancer. Schedule outdoor activities accordingly, even in the winter or when the sky is cloudy.

• Wear sunscreen all year-round

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 generously and reapply every three hours or more often if you are swimming or prone to perspiration.

• Wear protective clothing

Wear clothes with full-sleeves that extend up to your wrists as far as possible and if you cannot do that, carry a shawl to not leave your shoulders bare. Additionally, wear a broad-brimmed hat and remember that it is always advisable to wear sunglasses to prevent damage from both types of UV radiation, UVA and UVB rays.

• Avoid tanning lamps and beds

Avoid using tanning lamps and beds as they emit UV rays and make you prone to skin cancer.

• Become familiar with your skin

Check your body regularly for new skin growths or changes in existing moles, freckles, bumps, and birthmarks.

Symptoms of melanoma
Various changes in the moles on the skin are one of the first signs of melanoma. Observing any of these means that you should consult a doctor and opt for treatment, if required, immediately.

• Asymmetrical shape

Moles with irregular shapes, such as two very different-looking halves can be the first sign of melanoma.

• Irregular border

Moles with irregular borders are another characteristic symptom of melanoma.

• Changes in color

Another sign of melanoma is an unknown growth in the skin with many colors or uneven color distribution.

• Bigger diameters

Look for new growth in a mole that is larger than a quarter-inch (about 6 millimeters) as this can be a sign of melanoma.

• They change over time

Moles may also change to develop new signs, such as variations in their size and color. They may also become itchy or bleed.

Hidden melanomas
Even though it is a type of skin cancer with easily visible symptoms, there are hidden melanomas that cannot be seen easily. These are known as hidden melanomas and they are as follows:

• Acral-lentiginous melanoma is a rare form of melanoma that can occur under a fingernail or toenail or on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet.
• Mucosal melanoma is a type of the condition that develops in the mucous membrane that lines the mouth, esophagus, nose, anus, urinary tract, and vagina.
• Ocular melanoma often occurs in the uvea, the layer beneath the white of the eye (sclera).

The signs of melanoma decide the course treatment and the condition can be treated successfully if it is detected early. Some of the treatments are:

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Biological therapy
• Targeted therapy