Melanoma Detection & Screening

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, is the one of the fastest growing cancers in the United States and worldwide.

Early detection of melanoma is essential to improve the prognosis.

In its early stages, melanoma can be successfully removed and monitored by regular skin screenings. In fact, survival rates can exceed 90 percent to 95 percent in early stage melanoma.& However, in its most advanced stages, melanoma can be deadly as few treatment options exist. Survival rates drop to less than 20 percent when melanoma has spread to other organs. There are several steps you can take in order to help increase your chances of detecting a melanoma early

Carefully examine your skin once a month. If you notice any changes, consult a dermatologist right away. If melanoma runs in your family, make sure all of your family members are checked regularly by a dermatologist once or twice a year. Protect yourself from UV radiation by practicing safe sun habits:

• Avoid the sun during the peak hours (generally 10AM - 4PM)
• Use sunscreen daily. Sunscreen should contain elements which block both UVA and UVB rays and should have an SPF of at least 30. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and after sweating or swimming. Do not use a sunscreen to spend more time in the sun.
• Wear protective clothing if you are going to be exposed to a lot of sun (or you are particularly sun sensitive). Wear a wide brimmed hat, long sleeved shirts/pants, and sunglasses.
• Avoid tanning salons. Exposure to tanning salons increases your risk of melanoma.

What you'll need: a bright light; a full-length mirror; a hand mirror; two chairs or stools; a blow-dryer.

	Examine head and face, using one or both mirrors. Use blow-dryer to inspect scalp.
	Check hands, including nails. In full-length mirror, examine elbows, arms, underarms.
	Focus on neck, chest, and torso. Women: Check under breasts.
	With back to the mirror, use hand mirror to inspect back of neck, shoulders, upper arms, back, buttocks, legs.
	Sitting down, check legs and feet, including soles, heels, and nails. Use hand mirror to examine genitals.

Graphics illustrated are used with the permission of the Mollie Biggane Melanoma Foundation.

• ‹ previous
• next ›