May is Melanoma Awareness Month! At Reno Tahoe Dermatology, we are committed to educating our Northern Nevada community about the dangers of melanoma and the critical steps you can take to protect yourself. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, but with early detection and proper precautions, it can often be prevented and treated effectively.

Understanding Melanoma

Melanoma originates in the melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin, which gives our skin its color. While it is less common than other types of skin cancer, melanoma is significantly more dangerous because it tends to spread rapidly to other parts of the body if not caught early.

Risk Factors

• Sun Exposure: UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds is the leading cause of melanoma.
• Skin Type: Individuals with fair skin, light hair, and blue or green eyes have a higher risk.
• Family History: Genetics play a crucial role. Those with a family history of melanoma are at a heightened risk.
• Age: Risk increases with age, though melanoma is also one of the most common cancers in young adults.
• Previous Cancer: If you’ve had melanoma once, you’re at a greater risk of developing it again.

Prevention Tips

Sun Safety

• Use Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats can shield your skin from harmful rays.
• Seek Shade: The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to stay in the shade during these hours.

Regular Skin Checks

• Monthly Self-Exams: Learn the patterns of moles, blemishes, freckles, and other marks on your skin to spot changes early.
• Annual Dermatologist Visits: Schedule a yearly skin check with a dermatologist. Professional screenings are essential.

Recognizing the Signs

The ABCDEs of melanoma provide an easy way to remember the signs of this cancer:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
• Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
• Color: The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
• Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 mm across (about ¼ inch – the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can sometimes be smaller.
• Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies depending on the stage and location of the melanoma, but options may include surgical removal, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Early-stage melanomas can often be treated effectively with surgery alone, emphasizing the importance of early detection.

Get Your Skin Checked At Reno Tahoe Dermatology 

Your skin is your body’s largest organ and serves as your first line of defense against the environment. Protecting it is not just about maintaining youthful, healthy skin; it’s about saving lives. This Melanoma Awareness Month, take action to ensure your skin is healthy. If you have concerns or questions about your skin health, don’t hesitate to contact Reno Tahoe Dermatology. Early detection is your best defense against melanoma. Schedule your annual skin evaluation today.