Melanoma Skin Cancer: Risks, Causes & Early Detection

About 8,400 people die every year from melanoma skin cancer, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates. While very serious, melanoma is treatable when detected early.

What Is Melanoma

• Melanoma is a cancer of the melanoctyes cells, which are found in the bottom layer of the skin's epidermis and produce the pigment melanin.

Causes

• Though all the causes are not known, scientists believe that sun exposure, a weakened immune system and smoking can contribute the disease. Family history, age and a person's skin complexion also play a role.

Prevention

• The easiest way to prevent melanoma is by limiting direct exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays. Wear sun screen, protective clothing and hats.

Early Detection

• Do your own self-examination. If you find an unusual mole or changing mole, let your doctor know. Also know your family's history with the disease.

Cures

• If your doctor finds melanoma, the first step is to surgically remove the cancerous cells and the surrounding tissue. If the cancer is confined to a finger or toe, that digit might be amputated. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy and immunotherapy are all also used to cure melanoma.

Survival rate

• There are about 62,500 new cases of melanoma in the U.S. each year, according to the ACS. About 13 percent of those cases will be fatal.