A view of the sun as it was rising this AM– and with the temps and humidity increasing as well, remember to keep in mind, not just today, but all the time, the dangers the sun can create–specifically skin cancer. One in particular, melanoma, is the most dangerous. Melanoma is a malignant tumor of melanocytes, which are cells that produce the dark pigment, melanin, which is responsible for the color of skin. Melanoma is les common than other skin cancers, but it is much more dangerous, and causes the majority (75%) of deaths related to skin cancer. There are about 160,000 new cases of melanoma yearly. Red hair, fair skin, or light complexion all increase your potential of developing melanoma. Treatment includes surgical removal of the tumor, and can include chemo and radiation therapy. The chance of cure is greatest when the tumor is discovered while it is still small and thin, and can be removed entirely by surgery. Stay tuned as the next few posts will discuss the “ABC’s” in dealing with the signs and symptoms of melanoma, and what you can do to help prevent development of it.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day #: 1437
