Melanoma is a type of cancer that starts in the pigment cell of the skin. In some areas, pigment cells are closely packed together, forming moles. Otherwise pigment cells are scattered and their role is to give the skin its brown color. Melanoma can occasionally start in a mole, but more often, the disease begins in the skin between moles.
Sometimes, melanoma may resemble a mole, especially if it has not been growing for long. However, when melanoma has been growing for a while, it will look different from a mole. That's exactly what we all need to be aware of: Is there a spot or lump on the skin that looks different from moles?
We can detect melanoma ourselves. It is important to become familiar with our own skin. If there are changes in the skin, you should take notice. Do you have a black or bleeding lump that has appeared in the last few months? Do you have a large, dark spot that is continuously growing, has multiple colors, and perhaps an irregular shape? If you can answer yes to these questions, you should have your skin examined by a dermatologist.
The incidence rate of melanoma is increasing world-wide especially in fair skinned populations. The most important preventive advice is: Do not get sunburned!
