melanomaAWARENESS & PREVENTION

what ismelanoma?

Melanoma is usually, but not always, a cancer of the skin.

MELANOMA BEGINS IN

melanocytes(the cells that product the pigment melanin,

which colors the skin, hair & eyes.)

melanocytesalso form moles.

*Moles can be a risk factor for melanoma, but most moles do not become melanoma.

“An estimated 73,870 new

cases of invasive melanoma will be diagnosed in the

US in 2015.”skincancer.org

3 general categories

:1. Cutaneous Melanoma2. Mucosal Melanoma3. Ocular Melanoma

cutaneous melanomaMELANOMA OF THE SKIN (MOST COMMON)• Superficial Spreading Melanoma • Nodular Melanoma • Acral Lentiginous Melanoma • Lentigo Malignat Melanoma

mucosal melanomaOCCURS AT MUCOUS MEMBRANES

• Nasal passages• Throat• Vagina• Anus• Mouth

ocular melanomaOCCURS AROUND THE EYE

what causesmelanoma?

Current research points to family history, genetics and environmental factors such as ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Approximately 90% of melanoma cases can be linked to the exposure of UV raysfrom both natural and artificial sources.

Generally speaking, if you notice a change in color, shape, size, feeling or

texture of an existing spot (or new spot!), talk to your doctor right away.

symptoms to look out

for:

3 best ways to reduce your

risk:1. Wear sunscreen2. Wear protective clothing

3. Avoid tanning beds

wear sunscreenUV rays can still damage your skin even when it’s cloudy out, so try to make sunscreen a daily habit.

wear protective clothingProtect yourself with protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses.

avoid tanning bedsInstead of putting yourself at risk with UV rays, try an airbrush tanning solution instead, which is much safer and less invasive.

melanomaawareness

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& you can too!

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