BRIEF OVERVIEW :
Skin cancer -MELANOMA
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It is the leading cause of death from skin disease.
Melanoma can also involve the colored part of the eye (iris melanoma).
See also:
  • Basal cell skin cancer
  • Squamous cell skin cancer
Melanoma is caused by changes in cells called melanocytes, which produce a skin pigment called melanin. Melanin is responsible for skin and hair color. It can appear on normal skin, or it may begin as a mole or other area that has changed in appearance. Some moles that are present at birth may develop into melanomas.
The risk of developing melanoma increases with age. However, it is also frequently seen in young people.
You are more likely to develop melanoma if you:
  • Have fair skin, blue or green eyes, or red or blond hair
  • Live in sunny climates or at high altitudes
  • Spent a lot of time in high levels of strong sunlight, because of a job or other activities
  • Have had one or more blistering sunburns during childhood
  • Use tanning devices
Other risk factors include: