Melanoma

Melanoma is the least common of skin cancers, but it is the most dangerous. Unfortunately, unlike other skin cancers, it can also be seen in young adults. Melanoma occurs when the cells called melanocytes, which give color to the skin, become cancerous. Melanoma can develop over moles existing on the skin, or it can develop without any precursor lesion. When you see the following changes in moles, you should be examined by a dermatologist.

• Size, color and shape changes in your existing moles

• Moles on the same person are similar to each other. It is important to have a mole that is different from others

• Asymmetrical shape

• Mole edges to be indented

• Having two or more colors on the mole

• Having itching, bleeding and/or watering on the mole

• The mole feels rough or flaky when touched

In order to notice the changes in the moles, you should check them at regular intervals. Remember, the skin is an organ that can be seen, as long as you know how to look. For this reason, you should check your entire body, both the sun-exposed and non-sun-exposed areas, with the help of a mirror once a month. When you make this examination a habit;

• You will be able to notice the changes in your existing moles easily and most importantly, early.

• You will be able to detect new moles. and you will be able to follow their growth and development characteristics. You will be able to find out whether the ones that grow rapidly and look different from others are dangerous or not by consulting your dermatologist.

Early diagnosis is life-saving, it is very easy to do this in the skin, which is a visible organ.

The risk of melanoma is higher in some people. . These people are;

• People who burn easily in the sun and cannot tan

• People with light skin and eye color

• Those who have 100 or more moles on their body

• Those who have skin cancer in themselves and/or their family members

• Those who suffered serious sunburn during childhood

• Working under the sun Those who stay for long periods of time due to hobbies (such as surfers, farmers)

• Those who sunbathe for long periods of time to tan, especially those who are exposed to intense sunlight during short holidays

• Solarium users

• Persons who have had organ transplants

• Those who use immunosuppressive drugs

• Those who are sensitive to sunlight due to a hereditary disease

The most important factor that can be changed to protect against melanoma and other skin cancers is sunlight. Therefore, it is necessary to stay away from sunlight to protect from skin cancers.

• Do not stay under the sun during the hours when the sun rays are strongest (10:00-16:00). Do not let your skin turn red.

• Use sunscreen creams with SPF 30 and above. Get help from your dermatologist when choosing sun protection cream. Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going out and reapply every two hours. Apply again when you stop sweating and when you go in and out of the sea/pool, do not wait two hours.

• Protect a barrier between your skin and the sun with wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, long sleeves and tightly woven clothing.

• Do not use a solarium.

• Do not expose babies under six months to direct sunlight.

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