anoma will be diagnosed in the United States in 2021 . Approximately 7,180 of these cases will be fatal .
Who is at Highest Risk ?
Melanoma is 20 times higher in whites than African Americans . According to the American Cancer Society , the lifetime risk of getting melanoma is 2.6 % in Whites , 0.1 % in Blacks , and 0.6 % for Hispanics . Whites with red or blonde hair , blue or green eyes , and skin that freckles or burns easily are at the highest risk for melanoma . A history of one or more blistering sunburns increases one ’ s risk for melanoma . Age is also a factor in melanoma . Most cases are diagnosed after the age of 65 ; however , rates of melanoma are increasing in younger individuals . In fact , it is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in young women . It is more common in men after the age of 50 ; however , women are more likely to be diagnosed before age 50 . Your risk also increases if you ’ ve had a family member with melanoma . This can be due to shared environmental experiences ( i . e ., more exposure to UV light ) and / or genetic predisposition . Individuals with a weakened immune system , such as those with HIV or a history of organ transplant , are also at a higher risk for melanoma .
What Causes Melanoma ?
Over 90 % of melanomas are caused by UV light , including indoor tanning beds and outdoor sun exposure . On more rare occasions , melanoma can be caused by a genetic mutation . It most commonly occurs on sun-exposed areas of the body , such as the
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer because of its ability to spread rapidly to other organs if not discovered early .
back , arms , legs , and face . The first signs of melanoma are a change in an existing mole or the development of a new , pigmented lesion on your skin . Some 20- 30 % of melanomas arise in existing moles , while 70- 80 % occur in newly-appearing lesions .
What Are the Tools for Detecting Melanoma ?
The most important aspect of melanoma treatment is early detection . Knowing your own skin is critical ! Inspect your skin and become familiar with your freckles , moles , and marks
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