Moles and Melanoma: Reducing the Risk
What is melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that arises from pigment cells (melanocytes) in the skin. Melanoma is a word that comes from the ancient Greek word ‘melas’, meaning ‘dark’, ‘black’ and the suffix ‘oma’ which indicates a pathological condition or tumor. Literally, black tumor.
How common is melanoma in Greece
In our country, 1300 new cases are diagnosed per year. The number of new cases is constantly increasing. It is the most aggressive and deadly form of skin cancer, with 300 deaths per year.
How does melanoma appear on the skin
Melanoma can develop on existing moles, but it can also appear as a new mole-like mark on normal skin. Therefore, special attention is needed to changes in pre-existing moles and newly appearing lesions. It rarely develops outside the skin, such as in the eye, mucous membrane or internal organs. It can spread (metastasize) from the skin to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body. The diagnosis is serious, but if melanoma is diagnosed at an early stage and surgically removed, it may not cause further problems.
How does melanoma occur?
Melanoma results from complex interactions between genetic factors and environmental risks, the majority of which appear to be associated with cumulative sun exposure, especially intermittent sun exposure, such as sunbathing on vacation, and a history of sunburn.
Top tips for sun protection & reducing melanoma risk
Although we cannot change our skin type or the number of moles we have or our genetic makeup, we can change our behavior when exposed to the sun.
- Protect your skin with adequate clothing, wear a hat that protects your face, neck and ears, and a pair of UV-protective sunglasses. Choose sun-protective clothing (with permanent sunscreen fabric, widely available for adults and children) if you have fair skin or many moles.
- Limit sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Apply sunscreen before your skin turns red or burns.
- When choosing a sunscreen, choose a high SPF (50 or 50+) for protection against both UVB and UVA (circular logo and/or 4 or 5 stars). Apply sunscreen liberally 15-30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours and immediately after swimming.
- Sunscreens are not a substitute for protective clothing and shade. They offer additional protection. No sunscreen provides 100% protection.
- Protect babies and young children from direct sun exposure. UV protective clothing (rash vests), hats and sunglasses are mandatory for younger children
- Avoid artificial ultraviolet radiation (solarium)
- Skin lesions and moles should be checked regularly by a Dermatologist.
The skin is the largest organ of the body. Always protect it from harmful sun exposure, and never let it burn. And remember, melanoma is curable if detected early.
