What You Need to Know About Melanoma
Dec 27, 2019
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In 2019, approximately 97,000 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed - 57,000 men, 39,000 women. Although it is relatively rare (accounting for about 1% of skin cancers) melanoma has an extremely high mortality rate.
In 2019, approximately 97,000 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed - 57,000 men, 39,000 women. Although it is relatively rare (accounting for about 1% of skin cancers) melanoma has an extremely high mortality rate. Here at Florida Dermatology Associates, in Cocoa, Titusville, Palm Bay, Cocoa Beach, and Melbourne, FL, our dermatologists, Dr. Ruben Antenor Moreno and Dr. Frank G. Lee, want our patients to be as informed as possible about this condition and how to protect themselves against it. Read on to learn what you should know about melanoma to decrease your chances of developing this dangerous disease.
Melanoma Risk Factors
The most common cause of melanoma is overexposure to the sun that begins in childhood. Your chances also increase if you have a primary relative with the disease. According to the CDC, this kind of skin cancer has doubled in the past 30 years, and has been identified in adults over the age of 60 as well as in young adults around the age of 30. Melanoma can spread once it finds it's the way to your body, which is why early detection is critical to proper treatment.
Signs to Look For
If you notice any changes in your skin, visit your dermatologists in Cocoa, Titusville, Palm Bay, Cocoa Beach, and Melbourne, FL, as soon as possible. You should examine your body often, and contact our Florida Dermatology Associates if you notice:
- Scaly pink or red lesions
- Large brown spots with specks
- Frequent sores that heal and re-open
- Dark lesions on sensitive areas, such as fingertips, mouth, or nose
- Existing moles that begin to hurt and bleed
How a Dermatologist Can Help
To identify melanoma, your dermatologists will perform a biopsy at one of their locations in Cocoa, Titusville, Palm Bay, Cocoa Beach, and Melbourne, FL. If the biopsy is negative, together we will discuss tips for prevention that include covering up your arms and legs with protective clothing and visiting our office for routine checkups. If the biopsy is positive, we may discuss tips for removal and create a treatment plan best suited for your needs.
Concerned? Give Us a Call
To further discuss melanoma, schedule a consultation with our Florida Dermatology Associates. We have five convenient locations in Cocoa, Titusville, Palm Bay, Cocoa Beach, and Melbourne, FL, for our patients to visit. For questions or appointment scheduling, please call (321) 768-1600.