About Melanoma

Melanoma is an aggressive disease. It is the most serious form of skin cancer, characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells. Melanomas may appear on the skin suddenly without warning, but also can develop on an existing mole.

Melanoma is one of the most common cancers in the United States and one of only two cancers (the other is kidney cancer) whose incidence continues to rise. By 2010, it is expected that 1 out of every 50 people will be diagnosed with melanoma. Among women aged 20-29, melanoma is the leading form of cancer and in men over 65 years old, melanoma rates are going up. Today in the US, one person is dying each hour from the disease.

Risk factors include: unprotected sun exposure, genetics and a compromised immune system. People who have been diagnosed with melanoma have a 200% increased risk of having another melanoma. People with an immediate family member who has had the disease also are at much higher risk themselves.

Early detection is essential: there is a direct correlation between the thickness of the melanoma and survival rate. Dermatologists recommend a regular self-examination of the skin to detect changes in its appearance. Additionally, patients with risk factors should have a complete skin examination by a dermatologist annually. Anyone with a changing, suspicious or unusual mole or blemish should be examined as soon as possible.

If detected and treated early (treatment usually involves a full excision of the cancer), the 5-year survival rate is 95-99% and people can go on to live normal, healthy lives. If melanoma is not caught early however and has spread to other organs, the 5-year survival rate is less than 10%. Tools and new technologies that can detect melanoma at its earliest possible stage are critically important.