What is Melanoma?
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It begins in skin cells called melanocytes. Though melanoma is predominantly found on the skin, it can even occur in the eye (uveal melanoma). Melanocytes are the cells that make melanin, which gives skin its color. Melanin also protects the deeper layers of the skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. When people spend time in the sunlight, the melanocytes make more melanin and cause the skin to tan. This also happens when skin is exposed to other forms of ultraviolet light (such as in a tanning booth). If the skin receives too much ultraviolet light, the melanocytes may begin to grow abnormally and become cancerous. This condition is called melanoma. |  |
Where Does Melanoma Appear?
The first sign of Melanoma on the body is a change in the size or shape of a mole. For this reason, it is crucial that every growth or mole on the body is closely watched and monitored. However, melanoma can also appear as a new mole. In men and women, there are different percentages where melanoma is more likely to appear.
In Men, Melanoma is most often going to show up:
In Women, Melanoma is most often going to show up:
In Dark-Skinned people, Melanoma often appears:
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Types of Melanoma
There are 4 main types
