Dc And Cleveland Miles For Melanoma
The Melanoma Research Foundation is holding several virtual Miles for Melanoma runs this summer to support the fight against melanoma. Between two events in Washington, DC, on July 11 and Cleveland on August 2, the foundation is seeking to raise over $140,000 for research on melanoma prevention and treatment.
Uv Safety Month Is July
July is designated as Ultraviolet Safety Month, during which the goal is to spread awareness about the importance of protecting skin and eyes from the harmful effects of UV rays. Some of the advice promoted includes covering up with a hat and sleeves to prevent overexposure, staying in the shade, and using a proper amount of effective sunscreen.
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Melanoma Awareness Day Melanoma Monday
Every year, World Melanoma Day is celebrated on the second Monday in May.
Since melanoma can be one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer, skin cancer awareness month also includes World Melanoma Day, or Melanoma Monday. About half of melanoma cases in the United States are identified in situ, meaning theyre isolated to the outer skin layer. If melanoma goes undetected and spreads to other layers, its considered invasive and increases the risk of death.
Melanoma awareness month focuses on increasing melanoma awareness and helping people check their skin for signs of melanoma to catch it before cancer spreads.
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How To Treat Skin Cancer
Most skin cancers are treated with surgery. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are usually removed by a dermatologist as an outpatient procedure. However, in some cases, particularly with melanoma, more extensive surgery may be required.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a specialist treatment for skin cancer that involves removing layers of the affected skin and tissue and reviewing these under a microscope during the procedure. As the tissue is examined during the procedure the surgeon is able to remove all the cancer cells, whilst leaving the smallest possible margin of healthy tissue. Because this surgery minimises the removal of healthy tissue, it means the surgery is less invasive and therefore can improve the cosmetic outcome.
Whenwas The Last Time You Had A Skin Cancer Check
The Australian climateis known for its harsh sun and high UV, which makes it so important for people to know aboutsun protection and skin checks for the early detection of skin cancers.
Skin cancer has a 69%survival rate, and those odds are dramatically increased by early detection, makingcampaigns like this week a life-saving initiative.There is also an unhealthy tanning culture that spreads in the summertime with beachgoersoften trying to get a ‘healthy tan’. There is no such thing as a ‘healthy tan’ as tanning isa sign that you have been exposed to UV radiation at a level that has damaged your skin,increasing your risk of skin cancer. The skin cancer action week is a big part of combatingthis culture and ensuring Australians are aware of the importance of sun protection goinginto the summer months.
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Advanced Melanoma Treatment Response Monitoring Using Ctdna
Despite this tremendous progress in melanoma treatment and the many metastatic melanoma patients who are experiencing remission, ICIs dont work for everyone.10 If youre managing your cancer using ICI treatment, it is critically important for your doctor to monitor treatment response so that they can understand how to best guide your therapy.
The latest research from Nateras INSPIRE trial shows that Signatera, a personalized circulating tumor DNA blood test, can help accurately identify whether your ICI treatment is working. This study validated Signateras ability to effectively evaluate tumor response to immunotherapy across 25 different types of cancer, including melanoma. Read more about the results of the INSPIRE trial and how Signatera can help you to avoid unnecessary treatment.
What Are The Symptoms Of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer develops on bare skin, such as on the eyes, lips, scalp, face, arms, and chest.
It can also occur in the regions that are not exposed, such as soles of the feet and palms of the hands, especially for people with darker skin tones.
Basal cell carcinoma occurs in areas that are exposed to the sun. It appears as:
- A waxy bump
- A bleeding sore that keeps recurring
- A scar-like, brown lesion
Squamous cell carcinoma occurs in areas exposed to the sun and those that are not. It appears as a:
- Flat, scaly lesion
Signs and symptoms of melanoma can be:
- A large spot with a brownish color
- A mole that changes in color or size
- A bleeding mole
- A spot with dark speckles
- Small, itchy, and painful lesions on your nose, mouth, anus, vagina, fingertips, palms, toes, or soles that look red, pink, or blue-black with irregular borders
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Causes And Types Of Skin Cancer
Exposure to ultraviolet radiation is the primary cause of skin cancer. UVA and UVB are the two main types of sun rays, and both cause skin cancer by damaging the DNA in our skin cells. Unprotected skin can be damaged by the suns UV rays in as little as 15 minutes.
The two broad categories of skin cancer are melanoma and non-melanoma. The most common, non-melanoma types are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. You can find more information here.
This doesnt mean that you have to stay inside and avoid the sun. Going outside is great for doing daily physical activity, getting vitamin D and taking a break during the work day. But when you do go outside, be sure you are protecting your skin.
How To Protect Your Skin
Here are ways you can lower your risk of developing skin cancer:
- Limit your time in the sun. UV rays are the strongest between 10am and 4pm. Take a break from the sun and spend time in the shade.
- Apply broad spectrum sunscreen frequently. Use at least SPF 15 or higher even when its cloudy and reapply if you are in the sun for an extended period of time.
- Cover your skin. Wear clothing that covers your skin when possible, and wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.
- Avoid tanning beds. Tanning beds can cause serious long-term skin damage and contribute to skin cancer.
The evidence that diet may help protect against skin cancer is not clear. Some studies suggest protective potential for certain foods, such as tomatoes, watermelon, papaya, and pink or red grapefruit , as well as some dark, leafy vegetables. But these findings are not conclusive and should not replace protecting your skin with clothing, sunscreen and limiting sun exposure.
Before you head outside to heat up the grill or take that first dive into the pool, make sure your skin is protected to help reduce your risk of skin cancer.
For more information on sunlight and cancer, visit the National Institutes of Health website.
AICR Impact
The American Institute for Cancer Research helps the public understand the relationship between lifestyle, nutrition and cancer risk. We work to prevent cancer through innovative research, community programs and impactful public health initiatives.
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Skin Cancer And Melanoma Awareness Month: Innovations In Treating Advanced Melanoma
More people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year than with all other cancers combined, making it the most common type of cancer in the United States and worldwide. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.1 Fortunately, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Raising awareness can help save lives, and thats why, each year, the month of May is dedicated to promoting prevention and diagnosis of and screening and treatment for skin cancerparticularly its most deadly type: melanoma.
In this article, well take a deeper look at melanoma: what it is, how its diagnosed, the latest treatment breakthroughs, the importance of treatment response monitoring for advanced melanoma patients, and how to get involved so that, together, we can end melanoma.
There Are 3 Types Of Uv Rays:
- UVA rays reach Earths surface and penetrate through the skin, which can cause damage to the skin and connective tissue.
- UVB rays reach Earths surface less often because they are absorbed by the ozone layer. These can damage DNA and cause sunburn.
- UVC rays are the most dangerous, however, they dont reach Earths surface.
Skin Cancer Awareness Month works to shed light on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention of this cancer. Spreading knowledge to help people protect themselves and their loved ones. Heres more information on the awareness this month brings:
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May Is National Skin Cancer Awareness And Prevention Month
May is National Skin Cancer Awareness and Prevention Month, and with summer right around the corner, many are looking forward to enjoying the warm weather and spending more time outdoors. However, its important to protect our skin from potential harm from the sun. Elyn Bowers, MD, a dermatologist at Mercy Medical Group Midtown Dermatology in Sacramento, shared the following tips on reducing skin damage while enjoying those summer days.
Protecting Our SkinOur skin is the largest organ on our body and we should actively think about protecting it, especially when outdoors. When youre out in the sun for a long period of time and without the proper protection, not only are you susceptible to a painful sunburn, but youre also increasing your risk of skin cancer. In fact, obtaining more than five sunburns can double your chances of developing skin cancer, so making a conscious decision to protect yourself from the sun is key. One in Five AmericansSkin cancer is the most common type of cancer across the US and around the world, and one in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Certain groups of people are predisposed to developing skin cancer, including those with fair skin tones and lighter physical traits , those with a family history of skin cancer and those who spend an excessive amount of time outdoors.There are three major types of skin cancer:
- basal cell carcinoma
- squamous cell carcinoma
- melanoma
Educate Yourself And Your Loved Ones
One of the best ways to recognize and support this month of awareness is by educating yourself and your family. Learn more about how to protect yourself and provide support for those in need. Also, any friends or community members who may be interested in learning more or discussing their own relationship with skin cancer.
There are many resources available to learn more about skin cancer and prevention. Including testimonials from those who have battled with the diagnosis and doctors who have studied this cancer. The best way to educate yourself is to read a book about cancer.
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May Is Skin Cancer Awareness Month
With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is Americas most common cancer. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. By sharing facts about the dangers of unprotected exposure and encouraging people to check their skin for warning signs, we can and will save lives.
We cant do this work alone.
In 2021, for the second straight year, Skin Cancer Awareness Month takes place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even though many of us are separated, we can still unite against skin cancer, and help save lives.
Whats The History Behind Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Skin cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers year-round, it is also one of the most preventable. About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. This month is utilized to spread the word and prevent more cases of skin cancer.
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are the two most common types of skin cancer, followed by melanoma. Most cases are caused by exposure to too much ultraviolet light, or UV rays. Once UV rays, invisible radiation, penetrate the skin they can cause damage. Ultraviolet rays come from the sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds.
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Things You Can Do To Acknowledge Skin Cancer Awareness Month
More than 90% of skin cancer is caused by exposure to the sun. Reading this article is only a start to what you can do to acknowledge Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Make sure that you stay safe and protected when you are outside. This recognition prevents more cases of skin cancer from spreading.
Here are a few things you can do to acknowledge Skin Cancer Awareness Month:
Learn More And Get Involved To End Melanoma Together
If youd like to deepen your understanding of melanoma prevention, screening, diagnosis, and therapy, there are plenty of comprehensive resources available online. Nateras partners, including Melanoma Research Alliance, Melanoma Research Foundation, and AIM at Melanoma, offer additional research, information on clinical trials and the latest advancements in treatment, and a place to connect with the community. Weve also included a few leading-edge sources of melanoma information in the Additional Resources section below.And if youre interested in taking the next step and getting involved to help end melanoma together, check out these upcoming fundraising events :
- Steps Against Melanoma, an annual series of walks sponsored by AIM at Melanoma to support people living with skin cancer, share stories to spread awareness, and promote treatment and early screenings
- Miles for Melanoma, an annual series of walks held by the Melanoma Research Foundation in various cities across the US in an effort to raise money for melanoma prevention and treatment research
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What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Melanoma
Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body but is more common in areas that are exposed to the sun. It can present in many different shapes, sizes and colours but the most common sign of melanoma is the appearance of a new mole, a change to an existing mole or freckle or a change in appearance to a normal patch of skin.
In most cases, melanomas have an irregular shape and have more than one colourThe mole may also be larger than normal and can sometimes bleed or get itchyLook out for a mole that gradually changes shape, size or colourIf you notice any changes to your skin, even if they are not included on this list, please make sure you speak to your GP.
Other Cancer Ribbons And Months:
- Bone cancer Yellow
- Ovarian cancer Teal
- Sarcoma Yellow
With more than 100 forms of cancer, it can be helpful to know which ribbons support which forms of cancer. Depending on where you live the colors can vary, some cancers fall under multiple colors as well.
A great way to bring awareness is to support the cause by wearing ribbons or colors to show solidarity. Also, donating time, energy, and resources to funding campaigns around the world.
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How To Self Check Your Moles
When checking your moles, it is recommended to use both a full length and a handheld mirror so you are able to check your body all over. Stand in a well-lit room and ask a family member or your partner to help you check the hard to reach areas such as your back.
Donât forget to check less obvious places such as your scalp, the soles of your feet and in between your fingers and toes. It is a good idea to take photos of your moles so you can keep track of any changes.
Moles can look very different to each other which can make it hard to identify moles which may be worrying, but the key thing you are looking for is if your mole is changing. When checking your body for moles, you are looking for any changes to the size, colour of shape. You are also looking for itching, bleeding or crusting of moles which are signs you need to book an appointment to get your moles checked by a consultant dermatologist.
To help with this, an easy to remember acronym is often used for home mole checks to help you identify any worrying mole changes.
A: Asymmetry â moles should be symmetrical and a common sign of melanoma is an asymmetrical mole. If you were to draw a line through the middle of your mole or lesion and the two halves donât match, then you should get it checked by a dermatologist. A common benign mole is often round or oval and symmetrical.
Reach Out To Anyone You Know Who Has Been Diagnosed
Another great way to support this month of awareness is by reaching out to anyone you know who has been diagnosed with skin cancer. Providing support to those in need as they grieve or battle with their situation.
Be mindful of your conversations with those who have been diagnosed with this cancer. Even the most emotionally-intelligent person can struggle to know what to say in times like this.
Sending personalized condolences helps people feel cared for and reminds them that they have a support system to call. It can be hard to know what to say to a loved one whose family member has cancer.
Discovering that someone has cancer can be shocking and a devastating experience for everyone involved. A lot of emotions can arise in these circumstances and you may find yourself searching for the right words to say. Take time to learn more about how to support someone with cancer.
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