Melanoma is a serious skin cancer type that affects the cells which are known as melanocytes. These cells are responsible for producing melanin which provides color to your skin. It can be developed in any body area, such as in the eyes. But there is less chance that it may develop in your throat or nose (which means inside your body). Usually, it develops on the top skin layer.
There is still more research required to learn about the exact cause of melanoma. But some researchers say that excessive exposure to sunlight may increase the risk of melanoma. People who stay more in sunlight can develop this type of skin cancer.
You may have not had a clear idea of how to identify its development but some symptoms can help you learn about it.
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What are the Symptoms of Melanoma?
This type of skin cancer may develop on any part of the body. The areas of the body which are more exposed to sunlight and other environmental factors are more likely to develop melanoma. The most common body areas are the face, arms, back, and legs. If you experience any type of changes in your existing mole or inflamed skin with pigmented areas, get medical help as soon as possible.
Experts from Jinnah Hospital say that some melanoma types are hideous as they can appear under a nail, in the mouth, or even in the eye. When you experience changes, make sure that you get medical help.
You can protect yourself from potential skin diseases by knowing about the factors that put you at high risk.
What are the Risk Factors of Melanoma?
There are multiple risk factors that you need to know about:
If you have had sunburn in the past months or any such history, it also increases the risk of melanoma.
Extreme sunlight exposure or tanning beds or lamps also put you at high risk of melanoma.
Having someone in the family with melanoma means that you should get checked more frequently.
Older age can weaken the immune system which can also lead to melanoma and other skin cancer risks.
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Fair complexion is a risk factor as it contains less melanin and does not provide much protection from ultraviolet rays. People with sensitive skin should also need to be careful when they go outside because UV rays can harm their skin and affect melanin production. So, people with fair skin are at high risk but melanoma can also develop in people with dark skin tone.
But you can lower the risk of melanoma development. How?
Well, the following section can help in reducing the risk of melanoma and other skin cancer types.
How to Prevent Melanoma and Other Skin Cancer Types?
Some of the skin cancer types like melanoma can be prevented with some simple tips:
Do Not Use Tanning Lamps and Beds
When we say that excessive sunlight exposure increases skin cancer, we also aim to protect ourselves from potential UV rays. People often pay to get tanned skin and stay in exposure to tanning lamps and beds. Yes, these are extremely harmful if you have a sunburn history or any other risk factor.
Cover Your Body
Wearing proper clothes that cover almost every part of the body can help to reduce the risk of melanoma. Make sure that you wear a cap as well to cover your face. Exposure to sunlight may damage the skin and develop skin cancer type.
Do Not Avoid Any Change
Your skin may tell you something. Yes, changes in your skin mean that you need to see a skin specialist to diagnose the cause. Your existing moles can be changed. There is also a possibility that you notice any growth on your skin. You should check in the mirror more frequently if you have been experiencing any such issues.
Do Not Go Outside without Wearing Sunscreen
It is crucial to understand sunscreen and how it protects you against UV rays which are harmful and cause skin cancer. People often avoid wearing sunscreen on cloudy days, but you should not take the risk because UV rays penetrate deep into the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Read More: Best Sunblock in Pakistan
Do Avoid Sun Exposure during Peak Hours
During peak hours of the day, exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of skin cancer. It also affects the eyes and every part of your body, including hair. In this way, you will be protected from sunburn and potential damage from sunlight.
The Bottom Line!
Darker skin people can develop melanoma on feet, hands’ palms, and fingernail beds, shared by one of the best dermatologists and cosmetologists, Dr Mahvish Aftab Khan. Changes in skin color indicate that you should get yourself checked and visit a certified dermatologist. You can definitely protect yourself from potential skin diseases by limiting sunlight exposure and taking care of yourself.
