Thursday, April 30, 2009

Melanoma skin cancer

Skin cancer is a serious problem and it can occur in different forms; the most common skin cancers are basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer, and melanoma. In fact, any type of skin cancer should not be taken lightly and it must be treated timely so that it will not get out of control.
Alone in USA, more than one million cases of skin cancer is treated each year. More to say, one in five Americans develop skin cancer. The most deadly type of skin cancer ismelanomaand it is the leading cancer in adults-25-30 years old. Melanoma is described by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells and may appear on the skin suddenly without warning or develop on an existing mole.
In treating skin cancer, researchers hope that topical treatments like imiquimod may be used to lower the seriousness and the cost of treating the disease as well as limit scars from surgery, and most importantly improve patient care.
However, doctors stress that the best way to catch skin cancer early is through screenings. Regular skin screenings are recommended for everyone, especially those over 40 years of age, and individuals at higher risk for skin cancer, those with a fair complexion, sunburn easily, have numerous moles, a personal or family history of skin cancer, and by occupation, recreation or use of tanning salons, get significant sun or ultraviolet rays exposure, regardless of age or race.
During a screening, a dermatologist will check moles, birth marks and other pigmentations for signs of cancer, which include abnormal size, color, shape or texture.

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