Hca240

Hca240

Skin Cancer – Melanoma

How Cancer Affects the Body: All forms of cancer occur when cells in the body start to grow uncontrollably. When melanocyte, the cells of the skin that produce its pigmentation which is color for the skin, start growing out of control, this form of cancer is known as melanoma. The problem with cancer is that it may spread, via the blood or lymph, to other parts of the body and cause serious problems in those areas. The risk factors and causes can be, the exact cause of skin cancer is unknown, but we do know of risk factors. UV light from sunlight or tanning lamps is the main risk. Having fair skin puts you at increased risk, with white people being 10 times more likely to develop melanomas than African Americans. Prevention, Detection and Diagnosis are, the best prevention is to avoid too much exposure to the UV light and always wear sunscreen when you are out in the sun. Detection is often by self-inspection, if marks on your skin appear to be changing in shape, size, or color, then I would have them checked out by a doctor. If the doctor is concerned, he may refer you to a skin doctor, which is a dermatologist. A small sample of the skin may be token to confirm if there is cancer present. The Treatment can be: treatment for melanoma can usually involves excision that is cutting out of the area that has the melanoma. If the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, the nodes may have to be removed. In some cases, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be used, however, side effects of this can include hair loss, nausea and vomiting and a loss of appetite. There are supports groups like: the American Cancer Society toll free on 1-800-ACS-2345 or alternatively, the national cancer institute on 1-800-422-6237.

Diagram of the skin. Retrieved January 9 2009, from American Cancer Society. Website: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_1X_What_is_melanoma_skin_cancer_50.asp?sitearea=